Expert Witness in Property

Session 1: Wednesday, 15 March 10am to 11.15am

The Expert Witness in English Law – Expert, Witness and Not an Advocate 

• The Legal Framework: CPR Part 35, Practice Direction 35, Guidance for the Instruction of Experts in Civil Claims 2014 and case law
• What is expert evidence? 
• When will expert evidence be allowed?   
• Different types of experts – The role of the single joint expert and assessors
• Experts’ core duties  
• Role of an expert versus that of an advocate 

Mandatory rules – review of ‘the role’ 

• Ikarian Reefer
• Case law  
• CPR part 35, PD to Part 35 + tribunal-specific rules  

Presenter:
Camilla Lamont, Barrister of Landmark Chambers
David Holland, King’s Counsel and Joint Head of Landmark Chambers

Session 2: Wednesday, 22 March 10am to 11.15am

Handling the appointment process 

• Overview of what is required 
• Relevant experience and expertise 
• Conflict check 
• Confirmation of instructions letter 
  - Definition of role 
  - Definition of instructions / key questions  
  - Information to be provided 
  - Remuneration – basis  
  - Timings 
  - Terms of Business 

Due diligence 

• Documents 
• Site inspection     
• Note taking  
• Photographs 
• File keeping 
• Assisting the legal team 

Report writing    

• Structure and format / model forms 
• Mandatory content 
• Suggested content and formatting 
• Final checks 
• Supplementary reports 

Presenters:
Sarah Fellows, Director, Savills
Sebastian Deckker, Director, Savills

Session 3: Wednesday, 29 March 10am to 11.15am

Discussions and exchanges between experts 

• Without prejudice  
• Timings 
• Purpose 
• Agenda 
• Location 
• Format (chair, assistants, legal support) 
• Joint Statements 

Giving evidence in court 

• Preparation 
• Format and process 
• Questioning process 
• Other issues (e.g.: Purdah)  

Building a reputation and demand 

• Experience, assisting 
• Courses, registers 
• Judgments 

Presenters:
Sarah Fellows, Director, Savills 
Sebastian Deckker, Director, Savills​