Expert Witnesses and When They are Needed

In litigation that is considered high stake, the testimony of expert witnesses is often considered as a necessary part of litigation strategy. It is only a premises liability expert witness who can answer questions which are critically yet unique in a premises liability case. When quantifying damage in a case, the testimony of an expert witness also becomes critically important. The testimony that an expert witness is given in court can have a tremendous effect on the proceedings and therefore it is extremely important for attorneys make sure that the one they have chosen is fit for the job at hand. The selection of such experts is so important in these times that it has become a joint effort between outside and in-house litigators.



So do You Need a Premises Liability Expert Witness?

Understanding whether there is an actual need for a premises liability expert witness is of prime importance. There are usually 3 reasons why there will be such a need:

• If the judge and the jury is not knowledgeable about the relevant concepts pertaining to the case.
• The facts of the case are not easily understood by the layman.
• If the facts of the case are such that without an expert witness it is not possible for the judge and the jury to reach a particular conclusion.

In case any of the above 3 reasons are present in litigation, such a witness will become necessary.

Experts are known to play many different roles in a variety of cases and some of them are very popular with attorneys. However, finding the right professional for a particular case is very important. For that, first the attorney should understand exactly what he wants to prove in court and exactly why he needs a premises liability expert witness and how it would be of help to him.

Finding the Right Expert Witness

Once an attorney has decided that such a professional’s testimony will be required, it is of paramount importance that he follows the few tips mentioned below:

• Choosing and engaging the premises liability expert witness as early as possible is essential. This is because the best experts are usually booked and unless one gets in early, engaging the best will not be possible. Also, it allows the attorney and the client himself to use the help of the expert in understanding the case better and preparing for its day in court.
• It is common to find quite a few around, but choosing the right one is half the battle won. Some experts are academics with wide knowledge about their area of expertise or industry. Some of them have worked in a particular industry and have gained a lot of knowledge through close association for a number of years. Others are professional, expert witnesses who belong to consulting firms. They provide testimony in the area of their expertise.
• It is always a good idea to choose a well-known premises liability expert witness whenever needed. It can seem like a daunting task to find one, but if an attorney consults his own circle, both professional and personal, he will be able to find some excellent people. Another really great way to find an expert who is a highly regarded academic is to look through publications, academic citations, conference presentations, and electronic CVs.
• If an attorney is still finding it difficult to find the expert who will turn his case, then consulting firms can surely be of help. This is because they are in the business of finding experts for court cases and their offerings are usually bang on.