A forensic pathologist is summoned by a trial court to give expert evidence. 'Conduct money' in this context refers to:
- A A penalty recovered from the witness if he refuses to testify truthfully
- B The full professional fee deposited with the court before deposition begins
- C An amount paid by the summoning party along with the summons to meet travel and incidental expenses of attending court ✓
- D A government allowance paid to every witness after the trial concludes
Correct answer: C. An amount paid by the summoning party along with the summons to meet travel and incidental expenses of attending court
Explanation
Conduct money is the sum tendered by the party issuing the summons, handed over with the summons itself, meant to cover the expenses of reaching and returning from court. C witness is entitled to decline attendance if conduct money is not offered. The separate fee for the professional service of giving the expert opinion is claimed later, usually through the court after deposition. Options B and D confuse this expense reimbursement with the professional fee, which is a distinct payment.
Reference: Parikh's Textbook of Medical Jurisprudence, Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, 34th ed.
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