ISSUE 53 Expert Witness Journal - Journal - Page 16
the solicitors prioritise the compilation and submission
of all required materials promptly.
Solicitors should approach the funding stage with
promptness, recognising it as a critical aspect of the
expert witness report process. By actively managing
the funding application, solicitors can contribute to a
more streamlined progression of the overall process.
In addition to providing the documents in a timely
manner, it is also essential that all documents are provided concurrently rather than in a piecemeal manner. This helps the experts to be confident that they
have everything required to prepare their report. Receiving documents in a piecemeal manner leads to increased frustration on part of the expert as they need
to continually update their report which leads to
delays in submission.
5. Appreciating Experts' Time Constraints
Experts often have primary professional commitments, and their availability may be constrained by
their day jobs. It’s vital that the solicitors recognise and
appreciate these time constraints and set realistic expectations regarding their availabilities and
turnaround times. Clear communication about expected timelines and an understanding of the balance
between the expert's professional commitments and
their involvement in the case can help prevent
misunderstandings and avoid unwarranted delays.
Establishing a systematic approach to document
submission including creating a checklist of necessary
materials and setting internal deadlines for their compilation would help to avoid any unnecessary delays in
the submission of the report. Proactive document
management significantly contributes to preventing
unnecessary setbacks in timely submission of the
report.
By fostering an environment of transparent communication and discussing potential time constraints with
experts and expert witness providers at the outset of
a case, can help to ensure that timelines are established
with due consideration of the expert’s professional
commitments. This approach would minimise the risk
of delays associated with conflicting schedules.
4. Securing funding in a timely manner
In legal aid funded cases, obtaining funding for
expert witness services is often a prerequisite, but delays can arise during the application process. Solicitors
must proactively initiate the funding application process to prevent prolonged periods of uncertainty. In
some complex legal aid funded cases, delays may also
stem from extended periods in receiving confirmation
of any shortfalls to be picked up by one of the parties.
Proactive engagement in the funding process, with a
clear understanding of potential funding gaps, can
significantly minimise delays associated with financial
considerations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the efficient procurement of expert
witness reports requires a hands-on approach from solicitors. Proactive case management during all aspects of
expert witness report management process are an integral part of effective engagement with experts and
expert witness report providers. Clear communication
and attention to detail are essential for streamlining the
process of obtaining a comprehensive expert witness
report in a most time efficient manner.
Graham Rogers & Associates Limited
Consultant Psychologists
M.Sc., (Ed Psych) M.Sc., (REBT) B.Sc. (Hons)., PGCE., Dip. REBT., C. Psychol., AFBPsS
Experience and Expertise in Psychological Assessment
Experience at The Central Criminal Court, providing reports and live evidence
Qualified as a Psychologist for over 30 years, former Head of Department
Experienced within both the NHS & Local Government
Experienced in working with offenders within the community
Contact: Mob: 07952 170 627
Email: graham61060@gmail.com
Available Nationwide
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