Expert witnesses in the criminal courts (Advert Reference: RDF19/BL/LAW/WARD)

The ability of expert witnesses and advocates to communicate scientific issues clearly to juries and magistrates has often been criticised, but there is a dearth of research about how expert evidence is delivered in criminal courts and how experts present their evidence and are cross-examined. Previous research at Northumbria has revealed that advocates lack training on scientific issues and are often unaware of the guidelines on admissibility of expert evidence contained in the criminal procedure rules, but there is only anecdotal evidence about how these gaps in knowledge affect courtroom practice. The aim of this research project is to fill this gap by observing cases in the Crown Court and Magistrates’ Courts where it is expected that experts will give oral evidence. The research should include analysis of judicial rulings on admissibility, the way experts communicate their findings (for example the use of visual aids and ‘verbal scales’ of probability), and the nature of cross-examination.

Your research proposal should explain the methods you would apply to the study and how it would be informed by the literature in other disciplines (for example, psychology or sociology) as well as law. Although the focus is on criminal courts, proposals which also include observation of civil courts will be considered.

Eligibility and How to Apply:
Please note eligibility requirement:

• Academic excellence of the proposed student i.e. 2:1 (or equivalent GPA from non-UK universities [preference for 1st class honours]); or a Masters (preference for Merit or above); or APEL evidence of substantial practitioner achievement.
• Appropriate IELTS score, if required.
• Applicants cannot apply for this funding if currently engaged in Doctoral study at Northumbria or elsewhere.

For further details of how to apply, entry requirements and the application form, see
https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/research/postgraduate-research-degrees/how-to-apply/


Please note: Applications that do not include a research proposal of approximately 1,000 words (not a copy of the advert), or that do not include the advert reference (e.g. RDF19/BL/LAW/WARD) will not be considered.

Deadline for applications: Friday 25 January 2019
Start Date: 1 October 2019

Northumbria University is an equal opportunities provider and in welcoming applications for studentships from all sectors of the community we strongly encourage applications from women and under-represented groups.