CLASS - VETERINARY ANALYSIS & ARTICULATION IN ANIMAL CRUELTY CASES
Join us January 28th, 2022 for a 3-hour live virtual course - R.A.C.E. approved for 3 credits. Taught by the highly respected Dr. Merck, this course will focus on the tools and techniques needed to properly analyze findings in the context of answering legal questions, formulating the assessment into a formal report, and articulating the findings through factual and expert witness testimony.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The course will discuss analysis of suspected non-accidental causes of injury using known exam findings of accidental causes and current research. Presentation of case examples and interactive assessment will be discussed. Forensic guided testing and investigation findings provide the context for the full assessment of the analysis. Discussion will include the articulation of the animal experience in pain and suffering which is a cornerstone in most animal cruelty laws. The expert forensic report format is critical for presenting the veterinary findings in a logical, easily understood manner for all parties involved in the legal case, which is critical for successful case outcomes. Participants will be encouraged to bring a case for group discussion.
COURSE COST
$75.00 – If you are unable to afford this fee, please reach out to CorinaS@pasadosafehaven.org to discuss alternatives.
COURSE INSTRUCTOR: Dr. Melinda D. Merck, D.V.M.
Dr. Melinda Merck is the owner of Veterinary Forensics Consulting in Austin, Texas. She provides expert case consultations including assistance with crime scene investigation and examinations of live and deceased victims, frequently testifying as a veterinary forensics expert. She is highly respected in her field and has made several meaningful contributions to the field of forensic investigation, including developing the first Veterinary Forensics course for University of Georgia and Florida veterinary schools.