Psychopharmacology and Death Investigations

Question 1

What type of cases can psychopharmacology be used for in aiding death investigations?

Answer 1

Accidental
Motor vehicle collisions
SIU investigations
Workplace deaths
Homicides

Question 2

What questions do coroners have to answer in death investigations?

Answer 2

Who was the deceased?
Where did the death occur?
When did the death occur?
How did the death occur?
By what means did the death occur?

Question 3

What is the role of the toxicologist in death investigations?

Answer 3

Daily review of cases that may require toxicology testing
Decides what drug testing is relevant for the case
Helps in interpreting findings and deciding if additional work needs to be done

Question 4

When are letters of opinion used?

Answer 4

Often used in addition to a regular toxicology report
May expand on areas that have not been addressed in a simple lab report
May be used when toxicology testing has not been done. Acts as a will say statement

Question 5

How can letters of opinion be used in court?

Answer 5

Replace the need for a toxicologist to attend the trial or they give an outline of expected evidence when a toxicologist will be required to testify.

Question 6

How to write a letter of opinion

Answer 6

Remember that this is a type of report used for court purposes
It should be understandable to people who are not experts in your area of specialty
Use simple language when describing scientific principles
Be very careful with your language

Question 7

Give an example of a format of a letter of opinion

Answer 7

Name/title at top
Name of crown attorney or defence counsel
Address
Re: R. v. name of accused