The expert witness report format typically includes sections such as the expert’s qualifications, summary of opinions, methodology, analysis, and conclusion. Our template follows this standard format to ensure completeness and clarity.
To assist experts in preparing their reports, we offer a free expert witness report template, available in both PDF and Word formats.
Expert report structure is crucial, though there's rarely a one-size-fits-all approach.
It may vary depending on factors such as
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The jurisdiction (be it a State Court or Federal Court, Arbitration, or international proceedings)
02
The level/seniority of the court
03
The type of proceedings – civil, criminal, family law etc.
04
The relevant expert rules, code of conduct and requirements applicable to that report
Although report content will always vary, common themes and considerations remain for all experts. These include
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This report is a sample to help you plan and structure your own. It’s not the only or necessarily the best format, as suitability depends on factors such as:
01
Ensures reports meet high professional standards, reflecting positively on the expert and legal team.
02
Achieves uniformity across all reports, making them easier to review and understand.
03
Saves valuable time by providing a pre-structured format, allowing focus on content rather than formatting.
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Includes all necessary sections and prompts, ensuring no critical information is omitted.
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Easily adaptable to specific cases while maintaining overall integrity and format.
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Minimises the risk of errors and omissions, contributing to more accurate and reliable reports.
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Enhances readability, making it easier for courts to digest the information presented.
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Aligns with legal and professional standards, ensuring reports meet industry expectations.
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Simplifies quality control processes, ensuring all reports meet the highest standards before submission.
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Enhances the credibility and persuasiveness of the expert witness, strengthening the overall case presentation.
We discuss Loquitur’s free expert witness report template (Word and PDF) precedent document. We discuss the report structure and content and provide drafting tips and suggestions for all experts when drafting their reports more generally.
While designed for Australian experts, it’s useful for all, especially in common law jurisdictions.
Fill in your details below to instantly access the expert witness report template.
State your assumptions
All expert reports rely on various assumptions. Typically these are provided as part of your letter of instructions from instructing solicitors. Explicitly note these assumptions in your report.
Everything you write may be discoverable
It is possible that everything you write down in respect of your expert report may have to be disclosed to the other side. Everything! It is not necessarily protected by privilege. This includes handwritten notes, drafts and emails. Thus be very careful before you write anything down.
Structure your report logically
Lawyers love structure. It makes a document easier to read, and easier to refer to specific parts therein. Use short paragraphs,headings, numbered paragraphs, annexures and page numbers.
Attach a relevant CV
This one is pretty obvious, but it is worth mentioning. You need to include a CV as this will establish your credibility and utility as an expert. However, make sure that CV is specific to the instruction at hand. Note relevant prior work history, and remove irrelevant information. Be sure to note prior engagements as an expert witness.
Explain your conclusions
Reasoning is the key to any expert report. A report by the most qualified expert is virtually useless to a court if it doesn’t explain the expert’s reasoning. Indeed, it is often the reasoning of a report which is more valuable to a court than the conclusions themselves.
Note the relevant rules etc
Each court and jurisdiction will have its own requirements, rules and/or code of conduct with which experts must comply. Be sure to reference this in your report so that the report in turn complies with the relevant rules. Typically your instructing solicitors will note these in their letter of instruction.
Don’t use jargon
Technical jargon should be avoided where possible. If unavoidable (such as when dealing with highlight technical matters) be sure to use as infrequently as possible, and to clearly define and explain the specific terms. Include a definitions section if necessary.
Take instructions from your solicitor
Only your instructing solicitors can provide the expert witness instruction. There are significant legal and ethical problems with “informal” instruction arrangements and these will seriously affect your credibility as an expert. In fact, as a general rule, an expert should not approach the instructing party unless necessary for the report. Further, when this is required, the contact should be made through solicitors.
Keep the report short and concise
Courts will not be impressed by long rambling documents. They will not enhance your credibility – they will weaken it, and will likely open you up to more areas on which the report can be critiqued and on which you can be cross examined. Keep the report as short and concise as possible.
Assess your instructions and assumptions
As an independent expert, critically assess your instructions and assumptions. Consider their impact if incorrect, as this affects your credibility. Raise concerns with your solicitors and be ready to address them in joint reports or cross-examination.
Access your free editable sample expert report
There is no perfect expert report, and there is no “one size fits all” form of expert report. However, with sufficient work, skill and analysis an expert can prepare a report which can better withstand the rigours of opposing experts, joint reports, conclaves and cross examination. Follow these simple steps and you will be in a much better position when drafting the report.
Combine this with courtroom experience, expert witness training, and knowledge and
understanding, and you as an expert will be of great utility and benefit to the court and instructing solicitors in all future expert engagements.
An expert witness report is a document prepared by a qualified expert, providing a professional opinion on matters within their expertise to assist the court in understanding technical aspects of a case.
Writing an expert witness report involves clearly presenting your qualifications, stating your expert opinion, and providing a detailed analysis of the reasons and evidence. Our template offers a structured format to ensure accuracy and professionalism.
Expert evidence is provided to courts etc in a written statement or report provided by that expert witness. It details their findings, opinions, and the basis for those opinions, to be used as evidence in legal proceedings.
An expert witness report outline includes an introduction, background information, methodology, findings, opinion, and conclusion. Using our template ensures all necessary sections are covered in a logical and coherent manner.
The expert witness report template is available in both PDF and editable Word formats, providing flexibility for your specific needs.
The expert witness report format typically includes sections such as the expert’s qualifications, summary of opinions, methodology, analysis, and conclusion. Our template follows this standard format to ensure completeness and clarity.
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