3 Crucial Tips for Working With a Structural Expert Witness
If you are involved in a legal case related to building and construction, you should plan on engaging a structural expert witness. In general, legal problems in the construction sector can be complicated because there are numerous aspects involved in design, engineering and building. If you are not diligent in your research, you could end up in a pitfall. For instance, you might be blamed for a problem caused by another party and held responsible.
A structural expert witness is invaluable in cases involving building failures, property damage, financial losses and general defective construction work. An experienced expert will provide factual information during lawsuits and other legal processes by examining the details of the case. Typically, the witness will help in pointing out where liability lies and facilitating your protection. Here are simple tips for working well with a structural expert witness.
1. Choose a Specialist
When planning to use a structural witness for a specific case or as a retained expert, you should ensure that they are equipped for the work. In simple terms, it is important to choose a specialist with the right qualifications in construction and engineering. You should look at the speciality fields of the different potential experts. Find one that matches your area of interest in the construction industry. Where possible, you should also choose someone who has functioned as an expert witness in the past.
2. Outline the Duties
You should ensure that you are clear about your expectations when engaging your structural expert witness. Often, clashes occur at critical times during legal proceedings because of miscommunications between different parties. It is advisable to prepare a detailed employment contract with clear details on their role. For instance, if you would like the individual to study case materials and provide reports or work alongside your legal counsel, you should include this in the contract. You might also want to mention critical deadlines and timelines in the document.
3. Provide Information
Finally, if you would like to work efficiently with your structural expert witness, you cannot afford to be stingy with the information on your construction cases. In simple terms, your professional will not be able to form a solid opinion and help with your difficulties if they do not have enough data. Therefore, make sure to provide copies of building blueprints, photographs, maps, depositions and other important materials. It is also advisable to prepare reports which have adverse evidence against your position. The information can be invaluable in attaining legal success.
