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28 October 2022
Issue: 8000 / Categories: Legal News , Profession , Expert Witness
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NLJ this week: Choose your expert & no improper influence

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In an expert witness double-bill this week in NLJ, Mark Solon, founder of Bond Solon, warns of the perils of improper influence, recounting some cautionary tales in the form of recent caselaw.

There are professional risks for experts should they ignore the rules (and the client’s case may also be jeopardised), so why do people continue to do it? As Solon points out, experts ‘risk their reputation and credibility’ and may find themselves named in the judgment!

Solon writes: ‘It sounds basic, but the duty of the expert is to the court and not the paying party. The opinion must not be influenced by the lawyers and be seen not to be influenced.’

Forensic accountant Rakesh Kapila considers the issues at stake when deciding whether or not to hire a forensic accountant, and who to choose. He sets out examples of where they would be required and offers nuggets of advice on what to look for when considering the best expert for the job.

Kapila reminds NLJ readers: ‘The choice of a forensic accountant may make a significant difference to the outcome of a case and it is therefore important that a specialist with the right attributes and level of expertise is selected.’

See Mark Solon's article on improper influence here, and Rakesh Kapila on forensic accountants here.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Ogier—Martin Livingston

Ogier—Martin Livingston

Martin Livingston joins Ogier in Cayman to strengthen regulatory support

Blake Morgan—47 promotions

Blake Morgan—47 promotions

Blake Morgan announces 47 summer promotions across UK offices

NEWS
Consultant-led law firms should prepare for closer regulatory attention as oversight evolves
Artificial intelligence may draft workplace grievances, but employers cannot treat them any differently from conventional complaints
From dishonest claimants to judicial promotions and procedural skirmishes, the latest legal developments offer plenty for litigators to digest
Fresh guidance is set to influence how courts decide whether hearings take place online or in person
County Court judges remain divided over whether landlords can lawfully force entry to carry out essential safety inspections after tenants ignore access injunctions
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