Construction and Property Insurance cases can be very complex and difficult for attorneys, juries, judges and those outside of the construction industry. Expert witnesses, thusly, are important in obtaining a favorable verdict. During the pre-trial preparation it can become vital for a great expert witness to inform the attorney of where their client stands and what the strengths and weaknesses of the case are.
As the case progresses through depositions and into trial, a great expert witness is vital in explaining these complex construction principles to juries and judges. Not only does the expert witness need to be knowledgeable about construction, but it is vital that they connect with the jury and judge by being personable, friendly, trustworthy and concise, but also being able to break the complex details of the case down to bite size, understandable concepts that people without construction experience can at least determine culpability.
Amy Currotto, from Merlin Law Group, says this about expert witnesses:
In establishing damages and liability under the policy, expert-witness testimony before a jury is one of the most important tools. An entire case theory can ride on the back of successful expert witness testimony, which is why policyholder lawyers should begin to consult with experts from the very beginning of a case. It cannot be overstated that winning or losing a property case often depends on the credibility and admissibility of the expert testimony. This is because without expert testimony, many property insurance cases cannot be proven.
Courts have held, when a matter is beyond the common knowledge of an average person, an expert witness opinion will be required to testify on the essential issue of causation. Policyholders who fail to present competent expert testimony on the issue often fail to prove their case which may ultimately lead to dismissal.
Richard Friedman and Patrick Malone wrote a book – Rules of the Road, A Plaintiff Lawyer’s Guide to Proving Liability states “to win cases, you must defeat complexity, confusion, and ambiguity, or they will defeat you.”
“Battle of the experts” can make the jurors skeptical, but also truly appreciate hearing the testimony of a highly educated and well-informed witness who can credibly explain to them the complicated or technical aspects of the case. Clarity is key. Being “a teacher” is vital for the expert witness to explain their findings in a way that can be commonly understood and your case can rest on this ability. Cases have been lost based on an expert’s inability to effectively communicate their opinions and methodologies to the jury. Communication can help you rise to success or it can lead to your downfall, not just for the average person, but also for an expert witness.