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Call Me a Doctor!

The Macomb County (Mich.) Probate Court is trying to figure out how the court doctor — who testifies as an expert witness and orders treatments in probate cases — got the job. The problem: Gerald Terlep is a degreed social worker, not a medical doctor — even though he has been acting as one for eight years. When asked whether the court had a vetting process to ensure the court doctor was qualified, Court Administrator Phillip Anderson said “I can’t answer that question.” But he did say Terlep is no longer allowed to testify in trials. “When someone comes into court, he’s told to raise his right hand and swear to his qualifications,” said Chief Probate Judge Mark Switalski. “If that person doesn’t tell the truth, then it’s clear where the problem is.” (RC/Detroit News) ...Right: in the court’s application and vetting process.
Original Publication Date: 04 December 2011
This story is in True’s book collections, in Volume 18.

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