2026 ACMT Seminar in Forensic Toxicology | Complexities in Testing, Interpretation, Litigation and Expert Testimony - Live Event Package

Register
- Non-member - Tier I - $700
- Non-member - Tier II - $450
- Non-member - Tier III - $400
- Non-member - Tier IV - $350
- Member - Tier I - $550
- Member - Tier II - $300
- Member - Tier III - $250
- Member - Tier IV - $200
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In partnership with:

Join ACMT for the 2026 ACMT Seminar in Forensic Toxicology | Complexities in Testing, Interpretation, Litigation and Expert Testimony! Created in partnership with The Center for Forensic Science Research & Education (CFSRE), this two-day, live virtual event on January 20-21, 2026 is designed to prepare professionals for the unique challenges of applying toxicology in both courtrooms and laboratories.

Across both days, participants will explore the intersection of science, medicine, and law, gaining knowledge from experts in their field. From navigating Frye and Daubert standards, to evaluating emerging substances like kratom and xylazine, this seminar is tailored to the realities of modern forensic toxicology, both inside the courtroom and in the laboratory.

With scientific analysis and exciting case panels, you will get practical strategies for interpreting evidence, preparing testimony, and building professional consulting practices. Live Q&A, interactive panels, and on-demand access (available for 90 days after the seminar) will create a flexible and dynamic learning experience.

Target Audience

This seminar is designed for forensic toxicologists, clinical toxicologists, physicians, pharmacists, laboratorians, medical examiners, coroners, attorneys, and trainees who want to enhance their skills in toxicology testimony and evidence interpretation.

Continuing Education

Live and Enduring continuing education credits for Physicians and Pharmacists is provided by AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare. It is expected that learners will receive up to 13.0 credits for learning and change.

Learning Objectives

After completing these two seminars, learners should be able to:

Examine core principles of toxicology to both courtroom and laboratory settings.
Communicate toxicology findings clearly and effectively in medical-legal contexts.

Need Assistance or Have Questions?

For assistance logging in, accessing content, purchasing or completing Continuing Education credits, or for other questions, please contact us at events@acmt.net or visit our FAQ page.

If you are in need of accessible learning accommodations, please contact events@acmt.net for additional assistance.

Registration Rates

Registration includes:

Access to the live virtual events on January 20-21, 2026

Access to the on-demand recording for 90 days after event

Access to the Speaker slides

13.00 Continuing Education Certificate. Available credits: Continuing Medical Education (CME) & Continuing Pharmacy Education (CPE).

Member Rates

Member Tier I: Full, Affiliate, International, Emeritus	$550
Member Tier II: Fellows	$300
Member Tier III: Residents, International - Developing Country	$250
Member IV: Medical Students	$200

Non-Member Rates

Non-member Tier I: Physicians, Pharmacists, Lawyers, "Other"	$700
Non-member Tier II: Fellows, SPIs, Nurses, etc.	$450
Non-member Tier III: Educators & Emergency Responders	$400
Non-member IV: Residents & Students	$350

Interested in becoming an ACMT Member? Contact our Membership Team at membership@acmt.net. Learn more at: www.acmt.net/membership

Group Discounts Available

Is your hospital or medical group interested in enrolling multiple employees in our course? We offer special discounts for organizations with multiple participants. Contact us at events@acmt.net for more details!

Refunds and Cancellations

Cancellations made 16 days or more in advance of the event date will receive a full refund less a 8% processing fee.
Cancellations made within 15 days of the event date will not receive a refund.

All cancellation requests must be made in writing and emailed to: events@acmt.net. No telephone cancellations will be accepted. A refund that results from a cancellation or change to your registration will be returned to the original payer and in the original method of payment.

Pending review, limited exceptions will be made based on need and circumstance (family emergency, for example) and must be submitted in writing to events@acmt.net. For these instances, the full registration fee, minus a 6% processing fee, will be refunded. Because each exception must undergo a review and approval process, we ask in advance for your patience.

Questions?

For any questions, please email us at events@acmt.net.

Agenda

January 20, 2026

9:45 - 10:00 AM ET | Opening Remarks

10:00 - 11:00 AM ET
Expert Consulting: What is your Approach?
Charles McKay, MD, FACMT, Associate Clinical Professor, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT

11:00 - 12:00 PM ET
The Business of being a Consulting Expert Witness
Teri Stockham, PhD, Forensic Toxicologist, Teri Stockham, Ph.D., Inc., Parkland, FL

12:00 - 12:30 PM ET | Break - 30 min

12:30 - 1:30 PM ET
Understanding Frye v. Daubert & the Federal Rules of Evidence (FRE)
MJ Menendez, JD, Senior Fellow and General Counsel, Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Willow Grove, PA

1:30 - 2:15 PM ET
Looking for an Expert & Navigating an Expert through the Courtroom
E. Thomas McCarthy, Jr., JD, Attorney, Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge, Grand Rapids, MI
Matthew L. Wikander, JD, Attorney, Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge, Grand Rapids, MI"

2:15 - 3:00 PM ET
2:15 - 3:00 PM ET
Evaluating Opposing Expert Opinions in Testimony
Madeleine J. Swortwood, PhD, Toxicology Practice Group Leader & Toxicology Expert, Robson Forensic, Dublin, OH

3:00 - 3:30 PM ET | Break - 30 min

3:30 - 4:00 PM ET
Beyond Excited Delirium: Hyperactive Delirium with Agitation
James Gill, MD, Chief Medical Examiner, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner CT

4:00 - 4:30 PM ET
Case Panel on Challenging Interpretations

Panel
Stacey Hail, MD, Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
James Gill, MD, Chief Medical Examiner, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner CT

4:30 - 5:30 PM ET
Building and Managing Expert Consulting Practice

Panel
Teri Stockham, PhD, Forensic Toxicologist, Teri Stockham, Ph.D., Inc., Parkland, FL
Charles McKay, MD, FACMT, Associate Clinical Professor, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT

Moderator
Bryan S. Judge, MD, FACMT, Professor of Emergency Medicine; Medical Toxicologist, Michigan State University College of Medicine; Spectrum Health - Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids, MI

January 21, 2026

9:45 - 10:00 AM ET | Opening Remarks

10:00 - 10:30 AM ET
Timely Principles of Analytical and Forensic Toxicology
Luke Rodda, PhD, Chief Forensic Toxicologist and Director, Forensic Laboratory Division, Asst. Adj. Professor, Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco

10:30 - 11:00 AM ET
Timely Principles of Medicolegal Death Investigations

11:00 - 11:45 AM ET
Current state of Illicit Opioids & Stimulants
Alex Krotulski, PhD, Associate Director of Toxicology & Chemistry, The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education, Willow Grove, PA

11:45 - 12:15 PM ET | Break - 30 min

12:15 - 1:00 PM ET
Case Panel on Opioids and Stimulants

1:00 - 1:45 PM ET
Using Quantitative Blood Concentrations to Determine cause of non-fatal overdoses in polydrug world
Paul Wax, MD, FACMT, Executive Director, American College of Medical Toxicology, Phoenix, AZ

1:45 - 2:15 PM ET
Supratherapeutic Dosing of Therapeutic Drugs and Adverse Effects
Karen S. Scott, PhD, F-ABFT, Director, Forensic Toxicology Laboratory; Medical Director, Hospital Toxicology Laboratory; Associate Professor, Laboratory Medicine

2:15 - 2:45 PM ET
Western Use of Kratom Products and Associated Challenges
Donna Papsun, MS, D-ABFT-FT, Forensic Toxicologist & Business Scientist, NMS Labs, Horsham, PA

2:45 - 3:15 PM ET | Break - 30 min

3:15 - 3:45 PM ET
Interpretative Value of Alpha-2 Agonists in Forensic Toxicology: Xylazine and Medetomidine
Kari Midthun, PhD, F-ABFT, Forensic Toxicologist, NMS Labs

3:45 - 4:30 PM ET
Alternative Matrices: Applications and Pitfalls
Gwendolyn A. McMillin, PhD, DABCC-CC, DABCC-TC, FADLM, Vice President of Clinical Scientific Engagement, NMS Labs, Horsham, PA
Jessica Kent, MD, Medical Toxicologist, Ontario Poison Centre, Investigating Coroner - Office of the Chief Coroner (Central West Region) Adjunct Assistant Professor - Clinician-Investigator, University of Toronto

4:30 - 5:30 PM ET
Case Panels on Unexpected Tests

Panel
Gwendolyn A. McMillin, PhD, DABCC-CC, DABCC-TC, FADLM, Vice President of Clinical Scientific Engagement, NMS Labs, Horsham, PA
Luke Rodda, PhD, Chief Forensic Toxicologist and Director, Forensic Laboratory Division, Asst. Adj. Professor, Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco

Moderator
Donna Papsun, MS, D-ABFT-FT, Forensic Toxicologist & Business Scientist, NMS Labs, Horsham, PA

Continuing Education

2026 ACMT Seminar in Forensic Toxicology, Live Virtual Event
Please claim your continuing education credits within 30 days of the live event: January 21, 2026

CE credit provided by AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare.

Criteria for Success
To obtain a certificate of completion, a score of 70% or better on the post-test is required. Please proceed with the activity until you have successfully completed this program, answered all test questions, completed the post-test and evaluation, and have received a digital copy of your certificate. You must participate in the entire activity to receive credit. There is no fee to participate in this activity. If you have questions about this activity, please contact AKH Inc. at events@acmt.net. If you have questions about this CE activity, please contact AKH Inc at bethany@akhcme.com

In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare and American College of Medical Toxicology (ACMT). AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 13.0 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.

Physicians: AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare designates this live activity for a maximum of 13.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Pharmacists: AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare designates this continuing education activity for 13.0 contact hours.

Instructions

Once you have completed your registration:

Click the View Button to view each course.
Click on the Contents tab on the day of live event. This is where you will be able view the Zoom link for the course as well as our event survey and downloadable Certificate of Attendance.
Watch live event. You can use the Zoom link in the Learning Center to leave and enter the webinar during event.
Complete the Survey. If you are completing CE or would like your Certificate of Attendance, completion of this survey is required.
Download the Certificate of Attendance. This is only a record that you have attended the course.

In order to receive and download your CE certificate, please go to your CE product to complete the required steps and claim your CE certificate.

Hardware/Software Requirements

Computer or Other Internet-Enabled Device; Internet Connection; Browser.

Materials

None.

Prerequisites

None.

Format

This event is a live Webinar.

Need Assistance or Have Questions?

For assistance logging in, accessing content, purchasing or completing Continuing Education credits, or for other questions, please contact us at events@acmt.net or visit our FAQ page.

If you are in need of accessible learning accommodations, please contact events@acmt.net for additional assistance.

Day 1: In the Courtroom | Complexities in Litigation and Expert Testimony - 2026 ACMT Seminar in Forensic Toxicology

Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits

Component	Credit Type	State/Medical Type	Available Credits
Continuing Education Certificate	Medical	Physician (CME)	6.50
Continuing Education Certificate	Medical	Pharmacist (CPE)	6.50
Continuing Education Certificate	Medical	Attendance Certificate	6.50

Live Virtual Event - Tuesday January 20, 2026

In partnership with:

Overview

Created in partnership with The Center for Forensic Science Research & Education (CFSRE), Day 1 of the 2026 ACMT Seminar in Forensic Toxicology takes you into the courtroom, where the science of toxicology meets the complexities of litigation and expert testimony. This day is designed to help participants develop the confidence and skills needed to serve as credible, effective expert witnesses.

Highlights include:

Expert Consulting: What’s Your Approach? – Build a structured methodology for forming expert opinions and deciding which cases to accept.

The Business of Being a Consulting Expert Witness – Learn how to manage the professional, ethical, and business aspects of expert consulting.

Understanding Frye v. Daubert & the Federal Rules of Evidence – Prepare your methodology and testimony to meet admissibility standards.

When Experts Disagree – Strategies for analyzing and responding to opposing opinions with professionalism and scientific rigor.

Case Panel on Challenging Interpretations – Apply your expertise in scenarios ranging from family court to law enforcement-related fatalities.

Beyond Excited Delirium – Explore drug-induced hyperactive delirium in complex forensic cases.

Through interactive case panels, real-world examples, and direct engagement with experts, this session will equip you with the tools to navigate the legal landscape of forensic toxicology testimony.

Continuing Education

Target Audience

Learner Objectives

By the end of Day 1, participants will be able to:

Describe approaches to expert consulting and testimony in toxicology cases.
Recognize key legal standards that guide admissibility of toxicology evidence.

Agenda | January 20, 2026

9:45 - 10:00 AM ET | Opening Remarks

10:00 - 11:00 AM ET
Expert Consulting: What is your Approach?
Charles McKay, MD, FACMT, Associate Clinical Professor, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT

11:00 - 12:00 PM ET
The Business of being a Consulting Expert Witness
Teri Stockham, PhD, Forensic Toxicologist, Teri Stockham, Ph.D., Inc., Parkland, FL

12:00 - 12:30 PM ET | Break - 30 min

2:15 - 3:00 PM ET
Evaluating Opposing Expert Opinions in Testimony
Madeleine J. Swortwood, PhD, Toxicology Practice Group Leader & Toxicology Expert, Robson Forensic, Dublin, OH

3:00 - 3:30 PM ET | Break - 30 min

3:30 - 4:00 PM ET
Beyond Excited Delirium: Hyperactive Delirium with Agitation
James Gill, MD, Chief Medical Examiner, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner CT

4:00 - 4:30 PM ET
Case Panel on Challenging Interpretations

Panel
Stacey Hail, MD, Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
James Gill, MD, Chief Medical Examiner, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner CT

4:30 - 5:30 PM ET
Building and Managing Expert Consulting Practice

Moderator
Bryan S. Judge, MD, FACMT, Professor of Emergency Medicine; Medical Toxicologist, Michigan State University College of Medicine; Spectrum Health - Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids, MI

Registration Rates

Registration includes:

Access to the live virtual event on January 20, 2026

Access to the on-demand recording for 90 days after event

Access to the Speaker slides

6.50 Continuing Education Certificate. Available credits: Continuing Medical Education (CME) & Continuing Pharmacy Education (CPE).

Member Rates

Member Tier I: Full, Affiliate, International, Emeritus	$300
Member Tier II: Fellows	$175
Member Tier III: Residents, International - Developing Country	$150
Member IV: Medical Students	$125

Non-Member Rates

Non-member Tier I: Physicians, Pharmacists, Lawyers, "Other"	$375
Non-member Tier II: Fellows, SPIs, Nurses, etc.	$250
Non-member Tier III: Educators & Emergency Responders	$225
Non-member IV: Residents & Students	$200

Interested in becoming an ACMT Member? Contact our Membership Team at membership@acmt.net. Learn more at: www.acmt.net/membership

Package Rates

Purchase the package here!

Refunds and Cancellations

Cancellations made 16 days or more in advance of the event date will receive a full refund less a 8% processing fee.
Cancellations made within 15 days of the event date will not receive a refund.

Questions?

For any questions, please email us at events@acmt.net.

Continuing Education

2026 ACMT Seminar in Forensic Toxicology: Day 1: In the Courtroom | Complexities in Litigation and Expert Testimony Live Virtual Event
Please claim your continuing education credits within 30 days of the live event: January 20, 2026

CE credit provided by AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare.

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 6.50 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.

Physicians: AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare designates this live activity for a maximum of 6.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Pharmacists: AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare designates this continuing education activity for 6.50 contact hours.

James Gill, MD

Chief Medical Examiner

Office of the Chief Medical Examiner

James R. Gill MD is the Chief Medical Examiner of Connecticut, past Chair of the Forensic Pathology Committee of the College of American Pathologists (CAP), and a past President of the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME). He has faculty medical appointments at Yale, University of Connecticut, and Quinnipiac University. He did his pathology training at Yale and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and his forensic pathology fellowship at the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner. Prior to Connecticut, he was the Deputy Chief Medical Examiner for Bronx County. He has testified over 450 times in criminal and civil matters in State and Federal courts and has published over 100 scientific articles and book chapters, and two books on a variety of forensic pathology topics. He has particular interests in public health including drug intoxication deaths, infectious disease, fatal complications of therapy, and proper death certification.

Stacey Hail, MD

Associate Professor

UT Southwestern Medical Center

Stacey L. Hail, MD is an Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine and Medical Toxicology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. She currently serves as attending physician in the Parkland Hospital Emergency Department and the North Texas Poison Center. Dr. Hail received a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at Southern Methodist University in 1995. After receiving her Medical Degree at the Medical College of Georgia in 1999, she completed both her emergency medicine residency and medical toxicology fellowship at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, Texas.

Dr. Hail has a prolific forensic toxicology practice serving as an expert witness for attorneys throughout the United States. She has testified multiple times as a witness for the Department of Justice involving federal drug crimes. Her toxicology interests include methodology for cause of death determinations, sudden death in custody and the excited delirium syndrome, and the national opioid epidemic. Dr. Hail also has provided toxicology commentary for local and national news venues and for documentaries on the National Geographic channel, the BBC, and the Oxygen channel.

E. Thomas McCarthy, Jr., JD

Attorney

Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

E. Thomas McCarthy, Jr. is a trial lawyer with more than 45 years of courtroom experience and a Fellow of both the American College of Trial Lawyers and the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. Recognized by Best Lawyers in America in multiple practice areas, he has extensive expertise in cases where expert testimony is central. Tom earned his B.A. in Psychology with High Distinction from the University of Michigan and his J.D. from the University of Tennessee, and he has completed advanced training in mediation and negotiation at Harvard Law School. He is admitted to practice before the State Bar of Michigan and multiple U.S. District Courts, and he frequently teaches trial advocacy with a focus on the effective use and interpretation of expert witnesses.

Charles McKay, MD, FACMT

Associate Clinical Professor

University of Connecticut School of Medicine

Dr. McKay was trained in Anatomic and Surgical Pathology, Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Medical Toxicology and was a Medical Director of Occupational Health and Medical Review Officer for a hospital system during more than 30 years of clinical practice, during which he provided toxicology consultation at 3 hospitals, directed a medical toxicology fellowship training program, and provided medical oversight of a regional poison control center. He provides medical legal consultation across the country on toxicology-related issues, and has testified in nearly 100 cases, many related to questions of alcohol- and drug-induced impairment.

MJ Menendez, JD

Senior Fellow and General Counsel

Center for Forensic Science Research and Education

M.J. Menendez, J.D. is Senior Fellow and General Counsel for the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. M.J. served on detail as the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces Heroin, Opioid and Fentanyl Special Projects Coordinator from 2015 to 2019. M.J. served 13 years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Colorado, 10 years as a state prosecutor in Jefferson County, Colorado, and 3 years as a state court judge in Jefferson County, Colorado. M.J. is passionate about achieving well-resourced excellence in medicolegal death investigations, and she proudly works with the National Association of Medical Examiners as Chair of Strategic Planning and Chair of the Forensic Pathology Shortage / Workforce Remediation Subcommittee.

Teri Stockham, PhD

Forensic Toxicologist

Teri Stockham, Ph.D., Inc.,

Dr. Teri Stockham is a respected consultant, author and lecturer in the field of forensic toxicology. Over the pastthree decades, she has gained extensive education, training and experience both in the laboratory and the courtroom. The three degrees Dr. Stockham earned have all been focused in the specialty of forensic toxicology. She holds a Ph.D. from the Medical College of Virginia, and a Master’s degree from The George Washington University. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Indiana State University. Her laboratory training, including the role as Chief Toxicologist for Broward County, Florida, complements her education and expertise. Dr. Stockham is experienced on the witness stand and has testified hundreds of times.

Dr. Stockham serves as a consultant to a number of law firms, providing her expertise for various court cases involving personal injury, insurance defense, probation/parole, court martial, DUI, workers compensation, child custody and drug-facilitated sexual assault. Her forensic toxicology services have encompassed a large number of clients who represent insurance companies, individuals, government agencies and healthcare providers.

Madeleine J. Swortwood, PhD

Toxicology Practice Group Leader & Toxicology Expert

Robson Forensic

Dr. Madeleine J. Swortwood is a nationally recognized toxicology expert affiliated with Robson Forensic, Inc. Her practice spans alcohol & drugs of abuse, pharmaceuticals, metals, carcinogens, inhalants, and novel psychoactive substances, among others, with extensive experience in casework, laboratory safety, and failure analysis. Dr. Swortwood holds a PhD in Chemistry from Florida International University and a B.A. in Biochemistry (Magna Cum Laude) from Duquesne University. She has served in academia, industry, and government roles, including as a forensic toxicologist for a medical examiner’s office and with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, publishing over 40 peer-reviewed articles and contributing expert testimony in civil and criminal matters. She is an active member of SFT, AAFS, NSC, serves on the editorial board of Journal of Forensic Science, and holds leadership roles in various professional toxicology committees.

Matthew L. Wikander, JD

Attorney

Smith Haughey Rice & Roegge

Matthew Wikander is a shareholder and the chief executive officer of his firm, where he focuses his trial practice on commercial, product liability, and wrongful death/personal injury litigation. He has extensive experience handling complex, high-exposure matters in both federal and state courts across Michigan, including catastrophic injury, products liability, and aviation, construction, and premises cases. Matt also represents businesses and individuals in commercial disputes involving ADA accessibility, employment discrimination, trade secrets, and unfair trade practices, with additional experience in class action litigation. He earned his B.A. from the University of Michigan and his J.D. from Wayne State University, where he served as Vice Chancellor of the Moot Court Program. He is admitted to practice before the State Bar of Michigan, the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Western Districts of Michigan, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit.

More Information

Day 2: In the Laboratory | Complexities in Testing and Interpretation - 2026 ACMT Seminar in Forensic Toxicology

Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits

Component	Credit Type	State/Medical Type	Available Credits
Continuing Education Certificate	Medical	Physician (CME)	6.50
Continuing Education Certificate	Medical	Pharmacist (CPE)	6.50
Continuing Education Certificate	Medical	Attendance Certificate	6.50

Live Virtual Event - Wednesday January 21, 2026

In partnership with:

Overview

Created in partnership with The Center for Forensic Science Research & Education (CFSRE), Day 2 of the 2026 ACMT Seminar in Forensic Toxicology shifts the focus to the laboratory, addressing the latest challenges in toxicology testing, interpretation, and application in forensic contexts.

Highlights include:

Timely Principles of Analytical and Forensic Toxicology – Review the foundations of toxicology testing, its limitations, and critical preanalytical factors.

Illicit Opioids & Stimulants – Understand current drug trends, specialized testing protocols, and the role of toxicology in determining cause of death.

Quantitative Blood Concentrations in Polydrug Overdoses – Explore interpretation challenges in today’s complex clinical and forensic cases.

Supratherapeutic Dosing of Therapeutic Drugs – Examine forensic cases involving substances such as benzonatate, tianeptine, and loperamide.

Western Use of Kratom & Associated Challenges – Gain insights into detection, analysis, and interpretation pitfalls.

Interpretative Value of Alpha-2 Agonists – Learn about the forensic significance of xylazine, medetomidine, and related substances.

Alternative Matrices – Discover the potential and pitfalls of testing non-traditional samples, from breast milk to beyond.

Case Panels on Unexpected Tests – Apply your knowledge to unique and challenging real-world scenarios.

With faculty expertise, case-driven discussions, and updates on emerging substances, this session will enhance your ability to interpret complex toxicology results and provide clear, defensible conclusions in forensic contexts.

Continuing Education

Target Audience

Learner Objectives

By the end of Day 2, participants will be able to:

Identify strengths and limitations of toxicology testing and interpretation methods.
Discuss challenges in interpreting results for complex and emerging substances.

Agenda | January 21, 2026

9:45 - 10:00 AM ET | Opening Remarks

10:30 - 11:00 AM ET
Timely Principles of Medicolegal Death Investigations

11:45 - 12:15 PM ET | Break - 30 min

12:15 - 1:00 PM ET
Case Panel on Opioids and Stimulants

2:15 - 2:45 PM ET
Western Use of Kratom Products and Associated Challenges
Donna Papsun, MS, D-ABFT-FT, Forensic Toxicologist & Business Scientist, NMS Labs, Horsham, PA

2:45 - 3:15 PM ET | Break - 30 min

3:15 - 3:45 PM ET
Interpretative Value of Alpha-2 Agonists in Forensic Toxicology: Xylazine and Medetomidine
Kari Midthun, PhD, F-ABFT, Forensic Toxicologist, NMS Labs

4:30 - 5:30 PM ET
Case Panels on Unexpected Tests

Moderator
Donna Papsun, MS, D-ABFT-FT, Forensic Toxicologist & Business Scientist, NMS Labs, Horsham, PA

Registration Rates

Registration includes:

Access to the live virtual event on January 21, 2026

Access to the on-demand recording for 90 days after event

Access to the Speaker slides

6.50 Continuing Education Certificate. Available credits: Continuing Medical Education (CME) & Continuing Pharmacy Education (CPE).

Member Rates

Member Tier I: Full, Affiliate, International, Emeritus	$300
Member Tier II: Fellows	$175
Member Tier III: Residents, International - Developing Country	$150
Member IV: Medical Students	$125

Non-Member Rates

Non-member Tier I: Physicians, Pharmacists, Lawyers, "Other"	$375
Non-member Tier II: Fellows, SPIs, Nurses, etc.	$250
Non-member Tier III: Educators & Emergency Responders	$225
Non-member IV: Residents & Students	$200

Interested in becoming an ACMT Member? Contact our Membership Team at membership@acmt.net. Learn more at: www.acmt.net/membership

Package Rates

Purchase the package here!

Refunds and Cancellations

Cancellations made 16 days or more in advance of the event date will receive a full refund less a 8% processing fee.
Cancellations made within 15 days of the event date will not receive a refund.

Questions?

For any questions, please email us at events@acmt.net.

h3>Instructions

Once you have completed your registration:

Click on the Contents tab on the day of live event. This is where you will be able view the Zoom link for the course as well as all required components.
Watch live event. You can use the Zoom link in the Learning Center to leave and enter the webinar during event.
Complete the Event CE Survey. If you are completing CE, this survey is required.
Claim your CE certificate. Once you have claimed your CE credit, you will not be able to change your CE certificate.

Full credit can only be claimed after completion of all required components.

Hardware/Software Requirements

Computer or Other Internet-Enabled Device; Internet Connection; Browser.

Materials

None.

Prerequisites

None.

Format

This event is a live Webinar.

Need Assistance or Have Questions?

For assistance logging in, accessing content, purchasing or completing Continuing Education credits, or for other questions, please contact us at events@acmt.net or visit our FAQ page.

If you are in need of accessible learning accommodations, please contact events@acmt.net for additional assistance.

Continuing Education

2026 ACMT Seminar in Forensic Toxicology | Day 2: In the Laboratory | Complexities in Testing and Interpretation
Please claim your continuing education credits within 30 days of the live event: January 21, 2026

CE credit provided by AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare.

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 6.50 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.

Pharmacists: AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare designates this continuing education activity for 6.50 contact hours.

James Caruso, MD

Retired Chief Medical Examiner and Forensic Pathologist

Retired Medical Officer, US Navy

James Caruso, MD is the recently retired Chief Medical Examiner and Forensic Pathologist for the City and County of Denver. He is also a retired Medical Officer of the United States Navy, where he served nearly 30 years in roles spanning shipboard medicine, diving and submarine medicine, aviation medicine, pathology, and forensic pathology. During his Navy career, he was a Diving Medical Officer with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit, completed a residency in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology and a fellowship in Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine at Duke University Medical Center, and trained in forensic pathology at the Office of the Maryland Chief Medical Examiner.

Dr. Caruso has personally performed more than 3,000 autopsies and supervised countless others, working in environments ranging from military hospitals to combat zones. His notable cases include the investigation of the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster and the autopsy of Pat Tillman. Widely published in forensic pathology and diving medicine, Dr. Caruso has contributed numerous scientific papers and book chapters throughout his career. He now resides in Castle Rock, Colorado, where he continues to share his expertise in forensic pathology and medicine while enjoying time with his family.

Jessica Kent, MD

Medical Toxicologist; Emergency Medicine Physician; Investigating Coroner

Ontario Poison Centre; Office of the Chief Coroner (Central West Region); University of Toronto

Dr. Jessica Kent-Rice is an Emergency Physician and Medical Toxicologist at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, an Investigating Coroner for Ontario’s Central West Region, and an Adjunct Assistant Professor – Clinician Investigator in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto. She completed her Emergency Medicine residency and Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology fellowship at the University of Toronto and is currently a Fellow-in-Training with the Toxicology Investigators Consortium (ToxIC).

Dr. Kent-Rice’s work lies at the intersection of acute care, toxicology, and forensic medicine. Her academic and clinical interests include preventable drug-related deaths, the forensic applications of clinical pharmacology, and the use of toxicovigilance to inform public health and policy.

Alex Krotulski, PhD

Associate Director of Toxicology & Chemistry

The Center for Forensic Science Research and Education

Dr. Alex J. Krotulski serves as a Director at the Center for Forensic Science Research and Education (CFSRE) working in the areas of forensic toxicology and forensic chemistry and is the Program Manager for NPS Discovery, the CFSRE’s drug early warning system and flagship program for the identification and characterization of new and emerging synthetic drugs. Dr. Krotulski is a chemist by training and practices as a forensic toxicologist. Dr. Krotulski holds faculty appointment and serves as the Program Director for the Thomas Jefferson University Master of Science in Forensic Toxicology (MSFT) program and is an Senior Associate Editor for the Journal of Analytical Toxicology.

Gwendolyn A. McMillin, PhD, DABCC-CC, DABCC-TC, FADLM

Vice President of Clinical Scientific Engagement

NMS Labs

Dr. Gwendolyn A. McMillin is the Vice President of Clinical Scientific Engagement at NMS Labs in Horsham, Pennsylvania. She is board-certified by the American Board of Clinical Chemistry in both Clinical Chemistry and Toxicological Chemistry. Before joining NMS Labs, Dr. McMillin spent over two decades at ARUP Laboratories and the University of Utah School of Medicine, where she served as Medical Director of Clinical Toxicology and Pharmacogenomics, Scientific Director of Mass Spectrometry, and Professor (Clinical) of Pathology.

Dr. McMillin’s research focuses on pharmacogenomics, newborn drug exposure, and analytical method development. She has received multiple awards for her contributions to laboratory medicine, including the Ellis Benson Young Investigator Award from the Academy of Clinical Laboratory Physicians and Scientists and the Past Chair Award from the TDM and Toxicology Division of the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (now ADLM).

Kari Midthun, PhD, F-ABFT

Forensic Toxicologist

NMS Labs

Kari Midthun, PhD is a Forensic Toxicologist at NMS Labs with experience spanning academia, government, and industry at the intersection of biology and chemistry. She previously served as Assistant Laboratory Director at United States Drug Testing Laboratories and as a Forensic Scientist with the New York State Police. Dr. Midthun earned her PhD and MS in Chemistry and Chemical Biology from Cornell University, where she was a National Science Foundation IGERT Fellow. Her professional background includes forensic science, chemistry, nanotechnology, chemical safety, and education, and she brings expertise in laboratory leadership, analytical methods, and applied forensic toxicology.

Donna Papsun, MS, D-ABFT-FT

Forensic Toxicologist & Business Scientist

NMS Labs

Donna Papsun is a forensic toxicologist and business scientist with NMS Labs in Horsham, PA. She has dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemistry and Forensic & Investigative Science and a Master of Science degree in Pharmacology. She is also certified as a Diplomate in Forensic Toxicology through the American Board of Forensic Toxicology and is a member of both the Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT) and the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).

Ms. Papsun has been with NMS Labs since 2008, first as a bench analyst before promotion to toxicologist in 2012. Ms. Papsun’s main area of interest is novel psychoactive substances or NPS. As one of the two leaders of NMS’s NPS strategy team, she continuously works to help maintain NMS’s leadership in identifying the newest trends in the changing landscape of the designer drug market and developing tests for their detection in forensic toxicology casework. Ms. Papsun also serves in a secondary role as a business scientist, working to align the technical and scientific expertise of NMS Labs with commercial efforts.

Luke Rodda, PhD

Chief Forensic Toxicologist and Director

Forensic Laboratory Division; University of California, San Francisco

Luke N. Rodda, PhD is Chief Forensic Toxicologist and Director of the Forensic Laboratory Division at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, City and County of San Francisco, and Assistant Adjunct Professor at UCSF. His work focuses on the analysis and interpretation of alcohol, drugs, and poisons in medico-legal casework, including death investigations, drug-impaired driving, and drug-facilitated crimes. Dr. Rodda has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications on forensic toxicology, mass spectrometry, novel psychoactive substances, and opioid-related harms, and he has provided expert testimony in both criminal and civil proceedings. He is internationally recognized for his contributions to method development, oral fluid testing, and the monitoring of emerging drug trends, and he has played a leading role in advancing public policy related to impaired driving and forensic toxicology standards.

Karen S. Scott, PhD, F-ABFT

Director; Medical Director

Forensic Toxicology Laboratory; Hospital Toxicology Laboratory; University of Alabama at Birmingham

Karen S. Scott, PhD is Associate Professor and Director of the Clinical and Forensic Toxicology Laboratories at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, with more than 30 years of experience in forensic toxicology. She earned her PhD from the University of Glasgow, where she trained in postmortem toxicology alongside forensic pathologists, and later completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Japan’s National Institute of Health Sciences focusing on drug detection in hair. Dr. Scott has held leadership roles in both academia and forensic laboratories, including directing the MSFS program at Arcadia University and the Master’s in Forensic Toxicology program at Glasgow. She currently serves on the executive board of the National Safety Council’s Alcohol, Drugs, and Impairment Division, the editorial board of Clarke’s Analysis of Drugs and Poisons, and the OSAC Forensic Toxicology Subcommittee. In 2025, she received the Outstanding Service to Council of Forensic Scientists (COFSE) Award in recognition of her contributions to the field.

Paul M. Wax, MD, FACMT

Executive Director

American College of Medical Toxicology (ACMT)

Dr. Wax is the Executive Director of the American College of Medical Toxicology. He received his B.A from Dartmouth College, his M.D. from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, his Emergency Medicine training at the UCLA Hospitals, and his Medical Toxicology training at Bellevue Medicine Center / New York University. He is Board-certified in both Medical Toxicology and Emergency Medicine, and is a Fellow of the American College of Medical Toxicology.

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