RT Journal
T1 A factor in prosecutions for the production of abortion.
JF Journal of the American Medical Association
JO Journal of the American Medical Association
YR 1899
FD January 21
VO XXXII
IS 3
SP 135
OP 136
DO 10.1001/jama.1899.02450300037007
UL http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jama.1899.02450300037007
AB Perhaps there is no class of cases connected with medical practice that so often come into the courts as those having to do with the proper or illegal interference with pregnancy. On the one hand, the physician who, after consultation with a colleague, produces abortion for good and sufficient cause, is sued by an ungrateful patient, or husband, because it is claimed that unnecessary interference has been practiced. Such cases are usually of the character of blackmail. On the other hand, illegal practitioners are frequently put under arrest because they are accused of having produced this condition for improper reasons. In both instances the patient may be an important witness, and her testimony may result in the acquittal or conviction of the defendant.This being the case, it is to be decided how competent she is as to her ability to testify. Her testimony as to her conversation with the