Expert Witness Training - Why is it so Important?

The testimony of an expert witness plays a central role in the judicial process. By providing an informed and unbiased professional opinion, often regarding complex technical matters, the expert witness ensures the Court is fully informed of all matters relevant to the case before them. Two things are requisite for anyone acting as an expert witness: first, they must have high levels of subject matter expertise, and secondly, they must be able to discharge the role of expert witness effectively and in accordance with relevant judicial rules.

In recent times it has become clear that technical knowledge of one’s specialist area, in this case Skin Camouflage, is no longer sufficient to be an expert witness in the courts of England and Wales. In the years following the Supreme Court's Decision in Jones v Kaney (March 2011), when expert witnesses effectively lost immunity from prosecution or suit, the expert witness has come under increasing scrutiny. Those who instruct and the experts who are retained, are legally bound to take the matter very seriously indeed. 
​
The problem is that instructing parties may not always know the full extent of the experience and knowledge the proposed expert has, especially in discharging the role of expert witness. In order to provide assurance of their professional standing to instructing Solicitors, their clients and the Court, it is vital that the expert witness can clearly demonstrate effective continuing professional development and current expert witness training. 

You can find out more about Expert Witness Services and Medico-Legal Report Services here:

Expert Witness Services >

MEDICO-LEGAL REPORT SERVICES >