He or she will –

• Only undertake legal cases for which he/she is fully qualified; if he/she is not the best “fit”, will provide recommendations for other suitable types of specialists and, if possible, offer specific referrals.
• Have the available time to complete the required preparation tasks and supply deliverables according to the retaining attorney’s expected schedule.
• Have both formal knowledge through education and the practical work experience to fully address the specific engineering questions at issue. A mix of the two attributes is much more effective than a concentration in either.
• Present an unbiased, completely objective and professional image in all written documents supplied and in personal testimony when deposed or at trial
• Clearly communicate (often complex) technical issues in writing and orally so that non-specialists can understand and follow his/her analysis to the opinions presented. NEVER “talks down” to any person or group, e.g., opposing counsel or the jury.
• Have the credentials to be accepted by the court as an expert in his/her specific field. Typically this will include formal and continuing education, appropriate work experience, publications and/or presentations on his/her specialties, professional society participation and licensure as a professional engineer (P.E.).

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