Shaken Baby Syndrome & Abusive Head Trauma Masterclass (2025)
CLE Credit Hours: Up to 3 hours of self-study CLE credit, where authorized. Please confirm with your state's CLE commission to ensure this program is available for self-study CLE certification.
Program Summary: This two-part CLE program gives criminal defense attorneys essential tools for challenging allegations of Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) and Abusive Head Trauma (AHT)—charges that often rest on contested and outdated science. In the first session, you'll explore the foundational theory behind SBS/AHT lacks support under rigorous scientific scrutiny, particularly from a biomechanical perspective. You'll walk through the history of SBS diagnoses, revealing how early hypotheses based on limited evidence became entrenched in medical and legal systems, and explore how common findings—like subdural hematomas and retinal hemorrhages—have many possible causes, and how confirmation bias and flawed differential diagnoses can lead to wrongful accusations. This portion equips lawyers with the skills to critically examine expert assumptions, challenge admissibility under Daubert/Frye standards, and cross-examine child abuse pediatricians with precision.
The second half of the program features Dr. Evan Matshes, a forensic pathologist who examines how abusive head trauma is diagnosed during autopsies. Dr. Matshes offers insight into the limitations of forensic pathology in these cases, especially when distinguishing inflicted trauma from other possible explanations like birth trauma, infection, or underlying medical conditions. He provides practical strategies for defense attorneys working with forensic pathologists, including how to assess autopsy reports, question assumptions about timing and force, and push back on causation claims that are not medically or scientifically supported. His analysis is grounded in current literature and professional guidelines, giving defense attorneys a foundation for expert consultation and courtroom challenge.
Together, these sessions offer defense attorneys a rigorous, science-based framework for confronting SBS/AHT allegations. Viewers will come away with a deeper understanding of the medical theories behind the diagnosis, the scientific controversies that undermine it, and the legal strategies needed to expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This is essential training for any lawyer defending a client in a high-stakes child injury or homicide case.
Presentations Included:
- Challenging the "Science" of Shaken Baby Syndrome | Danica Rue
- Abusive Head Trauma (AHT): Controversies in Pediatric Forensic Medicine and Pathology | Dr. Evan Matshes (Part 1)
- Abusive Head Trauma (AHT): Controversies in Pediatric Forensic Medicine and Pathology | Dr. Evan Matshes (Part 2)
Prices
- List Price $99.00
- Member Price $89.00