What To Look For In An Expert Witness In A Family Law Case
An expert witness is a trained professional who is permitted to testify in legal proceedings because they have specialized knowledge that is relevant to the case. An attorney may hire an expert witness in a family law case in a number of different circumstances. If you are preparing to hire an expert witness in a divorce, child custody, child support, or other family law matter, it is crucial that you find someone capable of fulfilling the role. Here, our Florida family expert witness consultant highlights some of the key qualities that make a strong expert witness in a family law case.
Five Qualities of a Good Family Law Expert Witness
- Knowledge
You cannot simply call anyone to serve as an expert witness. Under Florida Law (Florida Evidence Code § 90.702), an expert witness must have specialized “knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education” that is pertinent to the matter at hand. When looking for an expert witness, it is imperative that you find a professional who is truly knowledgeable in family law.
- Experience as an Expert Witness
Not everyone who has specialized skills/knowledge is well-suited to serve as an expert witness in a family law case. Testifying as an expert witness is itself a complicated matter and serving as an expert witness is a skill that can be honed and developed over time. It is best to look for someone who has prior experience serving as an expert witness in a family law case.
- Effective Communicator
One of the key things that distinguishes great expert witnesses is their ability to effectively communicate with the court. By definition, an expert witness is testifying to a complex and/or specialized matter. They need to be able to rely their professional/expert opinion in a manner that is understandable to the judge and/or jury.
- A Focus On Details
Expert witness testimony is only required when an issue is complicated. The small details always matter. Indeed, a relatively small detail can make or break a divorce, property division, child custody, or child support case. You should always look for an expert witness who is focused on the small details.
- Reliability
Finally, you should look to hire an expert witness who can truly offer reliable, trustworthy testimony. Beyond being well-informed regarding the specialized family law matter at hand, it is also crucial that an expert witness is able to give their opinion in a consistent and authoritative manner.
Get Help From a Family Law Expert Witness Consultant in Florida
At the Law Office of Gale H. Moore P.A., our Florida family law expert witness and consultant is a skilled, knowledgeable expert. If you need help from an expert witness, Gale H. Moore is here as a resource. Give us a call now or use our online contact form to arrange your confidential consultation. We provide expert family law witness consulting services throughout the region, including in Pinellas County, Pasco County, and Hillsborough County.
Resource:
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0090/Sections/0090.702.html
