How To Become An Expert Witness

If you are searching for “how to become an expert witness“, High Desert Family Law Group is here to help you with that process!

What Is An Expert Witness?

The objective of any expert witness is to express his or her independent and expert opinion based on the provided information within a case. These experts can be used in different capacities like in litigations or arbitrations. The witness will give sworn evidence to a tribunal or court of law.

Here are the two types of witnesses:

1. Expert Witness who gives evidence based on their expertise and the facts/evidence of the case.
2. Witness of Fact who gives evidence of fact, but generally refrains from giving opinions.

An expert witness can be anyone with knowledge or expertise in a particular field. The main duty of a witness is to provide the court or tribunal with an impartial opinion. Experts are utilized to help decide disputes. These witnesses are not typically appointed to assist in the formulation of a party’s defense or claim, though. Testimonies by these professionals can swing juries, and ultimately win cases. Expert witnesses will be compensated by the attorney(s) retaining them.

Becoming An Expert Witness

Naturally, the first question is whether or not any professional can become an expert witness. Simply put, yes, an expert witness can be selected from any profession nowadays. In fact, nurses, doctors and paramedics are commonly sought after for their expertise on medical procedures, injuries and other topics. Other professions can be in high demand at times, as well. Architects and contractors are often used to offer expertise and explanations for either construction accidents and/or any building code violations. Teachers are sometimes called upon in cases involving education standards, etc.

Legal Standards For Expert Witnesses

Today, there are no “hard and fast” rules regarding who can and cannot serve as an expert witness. Instead, judges and attorneys alike will rely on two significant court opinions when determining an individual’s qualifications as an expert witness. The ruling in the Frye vs. The United States case basically established the standard for an expert witness. An expert witness testimony must be widely accepted within the scientific community.

A separate case, Daubert vs. Merrill Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc. produced a newer standard for experts. The expert’s opinion was to be accepted as long as the individual used scientific methods, peer-reviewed methodology, all while having the expertise to support the opinions. Daubert empowered judges to determine the validity of any expert testimony.

When Can You Be Considered An Expert Witness?

Whether it is through specific job-related experience or extensive education, there are several ways to become qualified as an expert. Generally, though, there are a few guidelines that hold true across all cases. Experts witnesses will ideally posses a terminal or advanced degree in their field. Sometimes, having a long and distinguished career in a field can outweigh the need for an academic background, though. Any attorney interested in the services of an expert witness will usually consider these factors:

• Have you ever been quoted by the press?
• Have you won any prestigious awards to date?
• Have you spoken at professional conferences?
• Do you have any work that’s been published in highly-regarded journals?
• Do you have prior experience as an expert witness?
• How flexible is your schedule?
• Do you have the ability to communicate complex issues effectively and efficiently? 

What To Consider Before Becoming An Expert Witness

Before attempting to be recognized as an expert witness, you must be sure that you are comfortable going through a deposition or trial. You must also understand that your personal and professional records will be researched and scrutinized at this time, as well. While not every case will head to court, there is a need for experts witnesses to review records, provide individual testing or report writing.

What Services Can An Expert Witness Provide?

Here are a few duties performed by expert witnesses:

• Give independent expert opinions in their area of expertise in accordance to the instructions they are provided with.
• Provide opinion in the form of a report and/or evidence before the court. 
• Comply with rules of the court or tribunal orders.
• Always remain independent and impartial during the process. 
• Make sure the Expert’s Report that you are provided has the information required by court rules.