Question

What type of matters would most excite you if you were an expert witness

Answer 1

An expert witness is a professional who has acquired sufficient expertise that their opinion can be relied on by a public body. Expert landscape witnesses are concerned with the planning process.

When it comes to complex financial litigation, an expert witness with the skills and training of an accountant can be an essential part of any case. They can provide answers and insights into the intricacies of company balance sheets or the value of personal property. With a range of specializations, certifications, and professional backgrounds, selecting an accounting expert witness can present a unique challenge. However, the right expert can greatly increase the odds of victory well before a case ever reaches trial.

What do Expert witness do?

• echnical accounting and auditing issues
• Matters relating to an error or irregularity
• Fraud investigations
• Contractual and other disputes
• Due diligence
• Customary operating procedures in practice
• Valuation
• Investor disputes
• Regulatory representation

The following are the preparation for an evidence.

Identify what matters and why
Landscape proofs of evidence are sometimes very strong on the detail of the assessment whilst failing to draw clear conclusions. Make sure your evidence identifies what matters and why.

Use reasoned arguments
There is always a degree of subjectivity to landscape evidence. You must be able to back up your opinion with a reasoned argument supported by independent evidence that explains why you have reached your conclusions. All opinions are not equally valid; in the end the Inspector must decide which opinion to believe.

Good English is essential
This is not just a question of punctuation and grammar. A reasoned argument cannot be presented in paragraphs of one sentence.

Cross reference everything and everywhere
Make cross-references to your plans, figures and photographs throughout your evidence including your summary proof. This may appear repetitive but will help you find the figure / photograph you need when you are in the inquiry room.

A good Summary Proof is invaluable
Don’t leave your Summary Proof to the last minute The Summary Proof is a good place to set out what matters and why without the detail.