header-logo header-logo

19 May 2023 / Mark Solon
Issue: 8025 / Categories: Features , Profession , Expert Witness
printer mail-detail

Expert witness first impressions

122319
Mark Solon provides a concise guide to early-stage expert reports
  • Practical tips for experts and instructing solicitors on early-stage advisory reports and screening reports.

As well as giving evidence at court and compiling expert reports, expert witnesses can also be asked to provide a brief advisory report or a screening report at an early stage.

What is a brief advisory report?

This is a short report provided by an expert after consideration of some, but not usually all, the material in the possible dispute. It is sought by instructing solicitors before proceedings are issued, when they are weighing up the merits of their client’s case. If an expert is instructed by a claimant, they will be asked to look at whether there is merit in the claim to warrant launching proceedings, and if by a defendant, to consider whether the client has a strong enough defence to the claim to warrant defending it.

Timing

The instruction will take place at the earliest stage of the litigation process, even before proceedings

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content
If you are already a subscriber sign in
...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

MOVERS & SHAKERS

NLJ Career Profile: Hugo Plowman, Mishcon de Reya

NLJ Career Profile: Hugo Plowman, Mishcon de Reya

From global fraud cases to fishing off-grid, Mishcon de Reya’s chair of dispute resolution Hugo Plowman discusses mentors, management switching off

Maguire Family Law—Jennifer Hudec, Ciara Florey, Alice Ferguson & Ruth Wynn

Maguire Family Law—Jennifer Hudec, Ciara Florey, Alice Ferguson & Ruth Wynn

Maguire Family Law announces partner promotion and new hires amid a record year for enquiries

Switalskis—Rebecca Parry & Hannah Gamble

Switalskis—Rebecca Parry & Hannah Gamble

Switalskis wills and probate team extends reach with two appointments

NEWS
Restrictions on workplace non-disclosure agreements could make settlements slower, more complex and more expensive when reforms expected in 2027 take effect
Private prosecutors face closer scrutiny under Crown Prosecution Service guidance designed to strengthen accountability and consistency when intervention is requested
Foreign states cannot necessarily claim immunity for cyber operations launched abroad against computers in Britain, following a divided Supreme Court ruling
Defendants who make unsupported complaints about their lawyers risk losing legal aid while confiscation proceedings continue without representation
Lawyers advising Russian clients face different sanctions restrictions across the UK, EU and US, despite their shared objective of increasing pressure on Russia
back-to-top-scroll