Many authors have considered the ethical dilemmas of a doctor being both the treating physician and an expert witness in litigation. The debate has often focused on the potential for bias and the adverse impact being an expert witness can have on the therapeutic alliance. Much of this debate seems rooted in the ethic of non-maleficence.  Here Dr Broughton attempts to examine the other end of this ethical quandary. Using a pragmatic approach, he hopes to explore these conflicts and consider biases from other sources. Ultimately, taking on the mantle of both roles is becoming increasingly unavoidable. Dr Broughton argues that, although there are challenges, embracing this dual role can be an important part of holistic treatment, risk management and the pursuit of the ethical principle of justice.