Understanding Shaken Baby Syndrome and Legal Challenges

Understanding Shaken Baby Syndrome and Legal Challenges

June 29, 2026 · 1h 0m · Season 9 · Episode 563

About this episode

The episode discusses the complexities and legal challenges surrounding Shaken Baby Syndrome and abusive head trauma cases.

The Controversy of Shaken Baby Syndrome: Legal Battles and Medical Evidence Steve Palmer sits down with veteran criminal defense attorney Mark Satawa for a discussion about one of the most challenging—and misunderstood—areas of law: abusive head trauma cases, formerly known as shaken baby syndrome. Together, they explore how these devastating accusations unfold, the medical controversies that surround diagnosing abuse in infants, and the real-life consequences for families swept into the criminal justice system. Mark Satawa draws on years of experience in the courtroom to break down the science, the evolving terminology, and the obstacles to mounting a successful defense. Whether you’re a legal professional, a medical practitioner, or just a concerned parent, this conversation sheds important light on why these cases are so complex—and why common sense, expert witnesses, and a proactive defense are essential when the stakes are as high as they get. Moments 00:00 Indicators of Abusive Head Trauma 04:47 Defining abusive head trauma 09:07 Shaken baby syndrome controversy 12:28 Biomechanical studies on car safety 17:55 Analyzing scientific method flaws 21:42 Parental fears and child…

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