Rights of the Expert Witness ~ I’ll Take a Veggie Slice, Please

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Rights of the Expert Witness

I continually assess and evaluate (there I go again!) my rights, values, professionalism, and of course ethics (which I really enjoy!?!) and am hopeful to write more on these topics and my career in the field of forensic rehabilitation consulting.

As far as rights, I found this great listing online (website is referred to below), and yes I added the graphics! I agree with the following essential considerations for taking on the role of expert witness:

I have the right to be paid for my work.
I have the right to be prepped in advance of my testimony.
I have the right to ask questions about the case.
I have the right to work for either side, without fear of retribution.
I have the right to change my opinion from previous testimony, as long as my opinion is evolving (based on new information, science and/or experience) rather than revolving (based on which side I’m working for).
I have the right to say “I don’t know”, if in fact, I don’t know. Just because I’m the expert doesn’t mean I have all the answers. I am clearly okay to say “I’m sorry, that’s outside my scope of practice”.
I have the right to solicit objective feedback about my testimony from the attorney who has called (and of course, they have the right to decline to give it).
I have the right to set limits with counsel about the scope of my testimony.
I have the right to disagree with another expert’s practices or conclusions, even when I perceive that expert to be: a.) more educated; b.) more famous; or c.) more experienced.
I have the right to disregard the initial instinct to view opposing counsel’s expert as the enemy, but instead recognize everyone’s role in the process and share pizza and a bottle of wine with that expert after trial is over.

I’ll take a veggie slice and a glass of Chardonnay please. You?

I am glad my career continually evolves! I accept responsibility when providing forensic services to be clear, truthful and comprehensive in my evaluation and report products, and in my role as an expert witness. Thank you for reading!