parenting time; expert testimony; qualifications
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill changes how expert testimony is used in Arizona family court cases involving allegations of domestic violence or abuse. It requires expert witnesses providing testimony about these issues to have specific expertise and clinical experience related to victims of domestic violence or abuse, excluding solely forensic experience. The bill also prohibits the use of certain psychological tests and analyses, such as polygraphs, and clarifies the definition of ‘abuse’ and ‘domestic violence’ for the purpose of this legislation.
Key provisions
- Expert witnesses in parenting time cases alleging domestic violence or abuse must demonstrate specific expertise and clinical experience.
- Expert testimony regarding domestic violence or abuse cannot solely be based on forensic experience.
- Psychological testing, diagnoses, and concepts used by expert witnesses are limited to empirically established and generally accepted methods.
- Polygraph examinations and voice-stress analysis are prohibited as evidence.
- Law enforcement officers with relevant training are exempt from the expert witness qualifications.
- Definitions of ‘abuse’ and ‘domestic violence’ are clarified for the context of the bill.
Who is affected
- Parents involved in family court proceedings
- Judges presiding over parenting time hearings
- Expert witnesses providing testimony
- Individuals alleging domestic violence or abuse
Bill text
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Sponsors
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4 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
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