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The Effects of Multiple Expert Witnesses on One Case


Experts are often the best way to mitigate damage to a case and prove certain aspects that may ensure success for the client in receiving compensation. However, if there are multiple experts added to the claim, this could prove either beneficial or they could severely cause negative consequences which may end in failure.

When a case is confusing or complicated, the need for multiple expert witnesses is apparent. However, under other circumstances, these professionals may cause detrimental effects to the claim. It is important for them to cooperate, help the lawyer in proving or clearing up confusion or to connect evidence to a person or place. Scientific methods may differ, but the ultimate goal is to progress the case forward and provide a conclusion that helps the lawyer prove the plaintiff’s issue. When these experts are not able to work in concert, the case may fail or lead to less compensation than needed.

Cooperation of Experts

While the ultimate goal of litigation is to receive compensation or another remedy, it is imperative that experts are able to work together. When cooperation is possible, these professionals may show the courtroom various aspects of the
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same case. For a medical malpractice case, this could provide one with knowledge of injuries the ability to explain these issues while another may detail economic damages of the time in the hospital causes to the victim. Accident claims may provide an opportunity for a defects expert to expound on these issues with another expert connecting the accident to a manufacturer or explaining what types of injuries are possible due to these defects.

Conflict with the Experts

The detrimental effects of multiple experts fighting with each other could cause a claim to fail. These professionals must perform to the best of their ability in uncovering certain facts or applying methods of scientific processes to the evidence and case. When their knowledge or experience works against the claim, this harms the plaintiff’s possibility of compensation. Any arguments or conflict may increase the chances of failure. The lawyer and the legal party must ensure that the experts either work together or are not in each other’s way. Testimony should increase the plaintiff’s chances of success. Unfortunately, some experts are unable to work together.

Multiple Issues in the Case

The reason more than one expert becomes involved in a case is due to the numerous issues at hand. These may involve medical and economic problems or real estate and negligence. Other claims may necessitate the hiring of three or more experts. For class action lawsuits, the lawyer or legal team may need a group of professionals to explain and unravel confusion. The expert witnesses then supply the case with additional information and explain how the defendant is culpable based on his or her actions or negligence. By working together and building a strong relationship with the legal representative, it is possible to progress through the case without conflict.

Detrimental effects of multiple experts on the same case may still occur when there are numerous issues that need explanation or clarification. Too many details may confuse the jury or judge or lead to the information becoming lost amid a sea of data. However, if the experts are able to work in concert and explain to the courtroom how each aspect leads to the need for compensation or a remedy to the situation, it is possible that the chances of success may increase for a positive outcome. These professionals need to work closely with the lawyer and ensure testimony will not deter or contradict another expert’s statements.

Weighing Benefits and Consequences

It is up to the lawyer to determine if the benefits of multiple experts outweigh the possible consequences. One expert may act as a consultant on which person to add and what aspect of the case needs expert testimony. Through a strong relationship with at least one professional, the lawyer may then understand the full details of taking on more than a single expert for the case. This could lead to numerous interviews to ensure the best fit for the claims as well. It may become important to single out one expert to explain why compensation is necessary for the victim of an incident.

Staggering expert testimony is generally a beneficial tactic. Ensuring there is enough separation between experts could give the judge or jury enough space to absorb details. This may also show how certain evidence has a connection to either the plaintiff or defendant.


Provided by HG.org

Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication, it is not intended to provide legal advice as individual situations will differ and should be discussed with an expert and/or lawyer.

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