The testimony of an expert witness can turn the tide of a case. They have specialised knowledge, skills, and expertise to break down the technical aspects of a case.
But here’s the thing: Not all expert witness services are the same, and finding the right one can be challenging. Here’s a short guide you can follow to find a reliable expert witness service:
Assess Your Needs
Expert witnesses cater to a broad spectrum of industries and areas, such as:
Engineering – called upon to analyse accidents, construction failures, and product failures
Medicine – provide expertise for medical malpractice and personal injury cases
Financial – analyse financial matters, such as fraud and business validation
Construction – analyse construction defects, delays, cost overruns
Trademark – provide opinions in patent law, trademark law, and copyright law cases
A reliable expert witness service has a wide catalogue. Assess your needs and clearly outline the expertise needed for your case.
Seek Recommendations
One of the best ways to find a reliable expert witness is to seek recommendations. Attorneys who have handled similar cases can reach out to previous expert witnesses. You can also ask colleagues for referrals. A fellow attorney would give you an honest review of the expertise and knowledge of an expert witness. This can increase the chances of getting fair compensation.
Another way to find reliable expert witness services is to use online resources and directories. You can filter results by area of expertise and relevant location. Some specialised databases curate information on expert witnesses, helping you choose without much hassle.
Check Expertise and Validate Qualifications
Word-of-mouth or online reviews aren’t enough when it comes to choosing a reliable expert witness. Make sure they have relevant qualifications and additional certificates.
For instance, a medical expert witness typically requires an MD or equivalent degree to assess cases and provide opinions. On the other hand, a financial expert will require an MBA or a CPA to evaluate corporate case files and point out errors.
Remember to validate the qualifications and certificates against the standards set by institutions, such as the International Council for Commercial Arbitration (ICCA), Expert Witness Institute (EWI), and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb).
Assess Track Record
Next, consider the track of an expert witness service. How many cases have they testified in? How did their testimony help the case? How do they ensure the objectivity of their opinions? Do they provide clear reports that outline the methodology and outcome? Such questions will ensure peace of mind.
You can also send a potential expert witness a Willing to Act letter. This will ensure that the case falls within their expertise and they have no conflict of interest.
Assess Communication Skills
Lastly, assess the communication skills of the shortlisted expert witness. Are they willing to answer all your questions and concerns? Are they transparent about costs and client references? Do they adjust their communication style for different audiences and situations?
The demeanor of an expert witness can play a critical role in the success of your case.
