Cairns Checklist
Definition
A practical self-review tool for UK forensic expert reports, derived from CrimPR Part 19 requirements and professional guidance, that prompts the examiner to check that the report addresses qualifications, instructions, materials, methodology, findings, opinion, range of opinion, limitations, and the duty-to-the-court statement.
- Jurisdiction
- United Kingdom
- Purpose
- Self-review tool for expert witness reports
- Derived from
- CrimPR Part 19 and professional guidance
- Checks
- Qualifications, methodology, findings, limitations, duty statement
Common questions
Why would an expert use a checklist derived from CrimPR Part 19 before submitting a report?+
CrimPR Part 19 sets mandatory content requirements for expert reports in criminal proceedings, and a report that omits required elements, such as a clear statement of the range of opinion or the duty to the court, risks challenge or exclusion, so a self-review checklist catches gaps before submission.
Does using the Cairns checklist guarantee a report will not be challenged in cross-examination?+
No. It is a completeness and compliance check for the report's structure and required content, not a guarantee against substantive challenge to the expert's methodology, conclusions, or qualifications during testimony.
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