[When a clinician becomes a medical examiner].

The article briefly describes the forensic work carried out at the Sexual Assault Centre, Akuttetaten, Oslo. The centre offers counselling and medical and forensic examination, and issues any necessary referrals for follow-up. The forensic examination is part of the health services provided and is offered whether the assault is reported to the police or not. This examination is carried out by specially trained general practitioners working in the emergency care unit. The author also discusses problems that may arise and various factors that should be taken into consideration when clinicians enter the forensic arena such as: The court's requirements concerning expert witnesses, Confidentiality, How to distinguish between therapeutic and forensic functions, How to safeguard the competence to act, Criteria for quality and professional development.