How to get paid as an Expert Witness

It is very important that Expert Witnesses consider the key factors in negotiating terms with an instruction party prior to accepting a case. Below is a list of things to consider:

• Set clear terms and conditions and confirm that the instructing party(s) agrees to them
• Ensure that your fee estimate is clear in what it includes e.g. type of assessment/case, the amount of pages of reading, travel costs etc.
• Make sure you know who is funding your work and how i.e. Private or Publicly funded
• Be clear on who your contract is with and who you will chase for payment

Finally, don’t forget that you can negotiate with instructing parties and also your right to say no!