The Role of the Therapist in Court Proceedings: Best Practices for Documentation, Preparing Effective Reports, Testifying in Court, and Becoming an Expert Witness

Timothy Dinan, is an attorney licensed in Michigan and Arizona. He has tried hundreds of cases and deposed thousands of witnesses over the last 30 years. He currently represents lawyers in attorney misconduct proceedings and bar applicants in character and fitness matters. He also maintains an active criminal defense practice. Mr. Dinan has taught at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, Michigan State College of Law, and Eastern Michigan University. He has given many professional presentations to the Institute of Continuing Legal Education, the State Bar of Michigan and other groups and organizations.

Mr. Dinan’s practice regularly employs psychologists and social workers as part of legal representation. He works with these mental health professionals to assist his clients in meeting their legal goals and maintaining their long-term mental health.

 

Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Timothy Dinan maintains a private practice. He is a published author and receives royalties. Mr. Dinan also receives a speaking honorarium and recording royalties from PESI, Inc. He has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Timothy Dinan is a member of the State Bar of Michigan, the Incorporated Society of Irish American Lawyers, the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Michigan, and the Association of Professional Responsibility Lawyers. He is a sustaining fellow with the State Bar of Michigan Foundation and serves as a committee member for the State Bar of Michigan Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program. Mr. Dinan is also a lecturer and moderator for the Institute of Continuing Legal Education.

Mary Petersen, LMSW, ACSW, has served as an expert witness in her field for almost 20 years in various capacities, providing oral, written, and in-person testimony in dozens of cases. She has worked with several different attorneys and has developed a comfort level with a process that mental health professionals often report finding stressful. She has learned how to prepare for dealing with legal issues, to present facts and her opinion succinctly, and to “think on her feet.” Ms. Petersen recognized a need for mental health professionals to obtain the training required to perform well in this challenging arena, so they are better able to serve their clients as well as others involved in the legal process.

Ms. Petersen has been a clinical social worker since 1999, and in private practice since 2005, is certified and licensed through the state of Michigan. She sees individuals, families and groups by appointment. Ms. Petersen treats adolescents and adults, most often for anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relationship issues, in addition to speaking to a variety of audiences on topics related to mental and behavioral health. She also provides life coaching to adults seeking present and future-focused, solution-oriented direction with accountability. Ms. Petersen possesses a degree in English and has been published on multiple occasions.

 

Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Mary Petersen maintains a private practice and has employment relationships with Grosse Pointe News and Crucible Consultants, LLC. She receives a speaking honorarium and recording royalties from PESI, Inc. She has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Mary Petersen is a member of the National Association of Social Workers and the Family Center.