ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a practical guide for writing expert reports for legal cases requiring cultural expertise, contrasting them with academic texts and highlighting their unique demands. Expert reports serve a specific, practical function, offering data-driven, scientifically grounded contents for decision-makers. The chapter outlines the essential components of an expert report, including jurisdiction-specific requirements, such as disclaimers, methodological transparency, and clear articulation of evidence and conclusions. Unlike academic papers, which may emphasise theoretical contributions and complex language, expert reports require clear, concise language accessible to legal professionals and laypersons alike. The chapter further addresses the expert’s duty to the court, underscoring the importance of impartiality and the potential impact of reports on case outcomes. Through examples, it illustrates challenges experts may face, such as legal reinterpretation of cultural terminology, which can impact case interpretation. The chapter concludes with practical recommendations for structuring expert reports to meet the rigorous standards of legal scrutiny, ensuring that cultural expertise can effectively inform legal processes while maintaining scientific integrity and ethical accountability.
