ABSTRACT
Introduction .................................................................................................. 282 The Expert Witness....................................................................................... 282
Defining the Expert Witness ............................................................... 282 Qualifications ....................................................................................... 283 The Role of the Expert Witness.......................................................... 285
Marketing ...................................................................................................... 285 Fine-Tuning the Expert Witness Image ............................................. 285
Case Selection ............................................................................. 285 Business Cards ............................................................................ 285 Curriculum Vitae (CV) .............................................................. 286 Websites ....................................................................................... 287
Methods of Marketing......................................................................... 288 Fees and Contracts........................................................................................ 290
Fees........................................................................................................ 290 Are Retainers Necessary and/or Refundable? .................................... 291 Flat Fees and Other Rate Methods..................................................... 292 Contracts .............................................................................................. 293 Postponements and Cancellations...................................................... 294
Liability .......................................................................................................... 297 Billing............................................................................................................. 298 Business Practices ......................................................................................... 298 Case Intake Procedures................................................................................. 299 Scheduling ..................................................................................................... 300
Timekeeping .................................................................................................. 300 Developing Forms and Checklists ............................................................... 301 Document Security and Confidentiality ..................................................... 302 Managing Clients .......................................................................................... 303 Reports........................................................................................................... 304 Deposition and Trial..................................................................................... 305 Conclusion..................................................................................................... 305 References ...................................................................................................... 305
Developing an expert witness niche is a golden opportunity for some legal nurse consultants (LNCs). However, LNCs should be cognizant that expert witnesses are held to the highest scrutiny; it is not a role to be taken lightly. Solid business principles lay the foundation for the successful building of the expert witness venture. Integrity, professionalism, respect, and credibility are key characteristics for expert witnesses and are essential to the success of their businesses. This chapter explores issues that pertain to the elite business of expert witnessing. Questions regarding qualifications, marketing, fees, and contracts are discussed.
