The Value of an Expert Witness

forensic expertAn expert witness is a person who by virtue of education, training, skill, or experience, is believed to have the expertise and specialized knowledge in a particular subject. His or her expertise is beyond that of the average person, sufficient that others may officially and legally rely upon the witness’s specialized (scientific, technical, or other) opinion about their area of expertise. The expert witness will render an opinion, also known as the expert opinion, about the forensic evidence presented.

Expert witnesses help lawyers develop strategies on how the evidence in question should be argued or presented in court. Often audio evidence is not original or genuine and should be closely examined by the forensic expert to authenticate the evidence or strategize with the lawyer on how to write the motion to have the case dismissed or audio evidence removed from the case.

Expert witnesses have a complete understanding of legal proceedings and can be a huge aid to the plaintiff, defendant, and courts when a piece of audio evidence is part of the legal case. Defendants who are facing serious charges especially need to seek the guidance and advice of an audio forensic expert. Plaintiffs who want to establish a solid case should seek the help of a video forensic expert to authenticate their video evidence prior to entering the courtroom. Expert witnesses are valuable resources to courts and other legal professionals.

photo credit: Black & White Justice via photopin (license)

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