Citation

Graß H, Rothschild MA. Rechtsmedizin 2011; 14(3): 189-193.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s00194-004-0256-4

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In the context of intimate partner violence, a medico-legal expertrsquos assessment is not routinely requested. However, a more intensive integration of medico-legal expertise into existing network structures—groups which have been installed in the community to improve the safety protection and care of victims of intimate partner violence—would be of great benefit. Each of the institutions in such networks should be informed of what forensic expertise entails and the services this field can offer to help guarantee optimal care. Medico-legal medicine should provide this information in direct contact with the different professions within the networks (police, courts, victim aid centres) and also approach health care providers (doctors, nurses, psychotherapists and health sector trainees). In addition, it is necessary to make it broadly known that forensic physicians can be consulted for injury assessment, physical examinations and documentation of violence-induced injuries.