header-logo header-logo

08 November 2013 / Dr Rajen Lavingia
Issue: 7583 / Categories: Features , Expert Witness , Profession
printer mail-detail

Standing up

web_construction

Dr Rajen Lavingia identifies the requirements of a forensic engineer

James Amrhein defined structural engineering as: “The art and science of moulding materials we do not fully understand; into shapes we cannot precisely analyse; to resist forces we cannot accurately predict; all in such a way that the society at large is given no reason to suspect the extent of our ignorance” (Forensic Engineering, Kenneth L Carper).

Consulting structural engineers have been educated and trained largely for the design and construction of new works. Therefore, their focus is on how to make things work. They are often responsible for innovative design and researching and implementing daring new ideas. Good designers generally have a creative mind to develop simple and efficient solutions. As a result they have familiarity with industry standards and practices, codes and specifications.

Consulting engineers generally consider a number of design solutions during the initial design stages and then focus on one for the detailed design. They normally follow the design process based on well published and established design

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

Flint Bishop—Charlotte Harris

Flint Bishop—Charlotte Harris

Sheffield expansion continues with appointment of commercial property partner

Browne Jacobson—Paul Duggan

Browne Jacobson—Paul Duggan

Browne Jacobson strengthens banking and finance practice with latest partner appointment Paul Duggan

Ward Hadaway—Chris Piggott

Ward Hadaway—Chris Piggott

Employment partner joins Ward Hadaway

NEWS
The Law Society RFC Festival of Sport returns next month, bringing together legal and financial services professionals for one of the sector’s largest annual sporting events
Legal aid deserts leave almost one in four without adequate access to justice
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has warned solicitors and law firms that using artificial intelligence does not alter their professional obligations, amid concerns over inaccurate legal material and client confidentiality
From forgotten interest claims to case-management appeals, a string of procedural developments offers useful—and occasionally cautionary—lessons for practitioners

Jonathan Fisher KC highlights that it now accounts for around 40% of criminal offences, with roughly 70% involving technology, and argues that the UK cannot simply prosecute its way out of the problem. Detection, investigation and prosecution all require improvement, while different fraud types demand tailored responses.

back-to-top-scroll