The Visum et Repertum in the Indonesian Criminal Justice System: a Review of the Dual Role of Doctors and Their Legal Obligations
Keywords:
Visum et Repertum, evidence, expert testimony, negative evidence system, forensic medicineAbstract
The negative evidence system in Indonesian criminal procedure law requires a minimum of two valid pieces of evidence and the judge's conviction. This research aims to analyze the status of Visum et Repertum as evidence within that evidentiary system and to identify various challenges in its practical production and utilization. The method used is normative legal research with a qualitative descriptive approach through literature studies of statutory regulations, legal literature, and forensic medical doctrine. The results of the study show that Visum et Repertum is a valid piece of evidence because it falls under the category of expert testimony. Physicians fulfill a dual role as clinicians and forensic examiners, with a legal obligation to provide statements upon the request of investigators. Major obstacles include rushed production, the involvement of non-experts, and the refusal of victims' families regarding autopsies. Consequently, there is a need for competency enhancement of forensic doctors and continuous public education.
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