Medicolegal practice in Pakistan. A view from within

Two generations have passed since Pakistan changed constitutionally from being under the rule of the British monarchy to becoming an independent Islamic-based democratic republic. Its medicolegal system, including the administration of justice, the academic basis of its medical and scientific expertise, and the practical investigation of crime, is thus a conglomerate of the English legal system and traditionally orientated and religiously based addenda that were successfully grafted onto the preexisting codes. With increasing urbanization, the greater availability of education, and specialization, further changes are likely that will mirror ongoing developments and activities in medicolegal practice worldwide. An overview of the Pakistani medicolegal system as it now exists is presented here to enable a better understanding of the changes that are gradually occurring and that need to continue.