Institute 1: Research on Trial: The Use, Misuse, and Evolution of Evidence in Family Law (Trial Track)
Expert testimony plays a prominent role in family law litigation, yet research is often misinterpreted or misused in court. This interactive session, led by a distinguished litigator and a social science researcher, examines the evolution of research in family law and highlights common pitfalls such as concept creep, scholar advocacy bias, and the misapplication of studies. Attendees will gain insights into evaluating expert reports, challenging flawed testimony, and cross-examining witnesses effectively. Hands-on trial exercises will reinforce strategies in real time, strengthening participants’ ability to assess and integrate research confidently. Case scenarios will be based on hotly debated issues, such as parent-child contact problems, coercive control, and shared parenting. Legal and mental health experts alike will benefit from this high-level discussion on how to understand and competently challenge the research, bolster confidence in applying research to legal and mental health issues, and navigate even the most complex family law disputes with precision.

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* 1. The content of the presentation was consistent with the abstract in the conference brochure

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* 2. Based on the content of this session, I am able to: (1=Strongly disagree, 5=Strongly agree)

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1. Identify common errors in the use of research evidence in family law, including concept creep and misinterpretations of studies on parent-child contact problems and coercive control.
2. Evaluate expert reports and testimony for methodological soundness, relevance, and potential biases.
3 Develop effective strategies for cross-examining experts and challenging flawed research-based evidence in litigation.

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* 3. Please rate presenter: Dawn Smith, Esq. (1=Poor, 5=Excellent)

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Level of knowledge and expertise
Teaching ability
Maintained my interest
Was responsive to questions, comments and opinions

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* 4. Please rate presenter: Michael A. Saini, PhD (1=Poor, 5=Excellent)

  1 2 3 4 5
Level of knowledge and expertise
Teaching ability
Maintained my interest
Was responsive to questions, comments and opinions

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* 5. Please rate this session presentation overall (1=Poor, 5=Excellent)

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* 6. How much did you learn as a result of this CE program? (1=Very little, 5=Great deal)

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* 7. Information presented in this session reflected the most current evidence on this topic (1=Disagree, 5=Agree)

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* 8. How useful was the content of this CE program for your practice or other professional development (1=Not useful, 5=Extremely useful)

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* 9. Additional Comments

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