A qualified concrete forensic investigation expert possesses certain traits which are deemed valuable when looking to retain an expert for deposition or trial testimony. Field experience and knowledge of concrete and related materials is of the utmost importance, but there are other skills involved in retaining a qualified expert.
Here are some of the qualities to look for when retaining a qualifed concrete forensic investigation expert. These tips were taken from a poll of attorneys.
First, be on the lookout for an expert who has the original professional persona that will translate when being desposed or providing expert witness testimony. Can they answer technical questions and still communicate to a jury or judge.
A concrete forensic investigation expert should be knowledgeable about both sides of the case and be able to give straight forward answers with no hesitation.
Next and possibly the most valuable trait is for the concrete forensic investigation expert to never come across as defensive or emotional when being deposed or giving trial testimony. The expert should answer questions and not defend why the client should win.
When addressing a jury or judge the expert should keep things simple. It is the attorney's job to point out the credentials of the concrete expert witness.
To support the previous point, an expert who can speak in laymen's terms yet still communicate expertise is a valuable asset to any trial case. The more expert witness experience the concrete forensic investigator has the better. This experience lends itself to how the expert witness presents themself to the judge and jurors.
Finally, an experience concrete forensic investigator will have the savvy to not allow opposing counel to rapid fire questions at them. They will possess the experience and knowledge to control the pace of the cross-examination.
Finding a qualified concrete forensic investigation expert that also possesses the expert witness experience is not easy but hopefully these tips will help.
If you're looking for a qualified concrete forensic investigation expert Building Forensics International hopes you will consider our firm.
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BFI Staff Writer