Expert Report
Definition
A written document prepared by the expert before trial or hearing, setting out their qualifications, the materials reviewed, the methodology applied, and the opinions reached with reasons. Most jurisdictions require the report to be disclosed to opposing parties in advance of the hearing.
- Prepared
- Before trial or hearing
- Must include
- Qualifications, materials reviewed, methodology, reasoned opinions
- Disclosure
- Required to opposing parties in advance, in most jurisdictions
- Used in
- Cyber investigations, fraud cases, and other expert testimony
Common questions
Why does the report need to list every material reviewed, not just the conclusion?+
Listing the materials lets opposing counsel and the court check whether the opinion rests on a complete and relevant record, and it gives the other side a basis to challenge the expert if something material was omitted or ignored.
What happens if an expert report is disclosed late?+
Courts can exclude the report, limit the expert's testimony, or grant the other side extra time to respond, since late disclosure undermines the opposing party's ability to prepare cross-examination or a rebuttal expert.
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Explained in these topics
- Cyber Investigation Reporting and Court PresentationA written document in which a qualified examiner records findings, methodology, and opinion for use in legal proceedings. Must be reproducible: another qualifi...
- Expert Witness Testimony in Fraud Cases