The Edifice of Forensic Examinations Will Remain [...] as if It Was Built on the Sand”. The Issues and the Obstacles of the Professionnalization Process of the Forensic Medicine in 19th-century France

Whereas forensic medicine was becoming a full science during the 19th century, only few physicians were able to build their medical career within this field. Forensic examinations were usually practiced by amateurs rather than experts. Several factors could explain this situation: Judges were legally allowed to call any medical practitioners they wanted, even if these physicians were not properly trained for practicing forensic examinations. Before the very beginning of the 20th century there was no specific degree for forensic medicine. Moreover, forensic activities were considered as a part of every physician’s duties. Finally, the fees granted to the required doctors were a major barrier to the professionalization process.