Disciplines
The rules of expert evidence do not change with the discipline. Whether the report concerns a collision, a shooting, a fire or a video, the same questions decide its reliability. Was a recognized method used? Was it applied correctly to the facts? Can the inputs be verified? Do the conclusions follow from the data?
I consult for counsel on expert evidence in any field built on physics, engineering, forensic science or technology. I do not replace the specialist in each field. I test whether the specialist’s work meets the standard the rules of evidence demand, and I show counsel where it does not.
I accept a limited number of matters at a time.
Every engagement is accepted on the basis that expert evidence carries real legal, financial, or reputational consequence, and every analysis is conducted on the assumption it will be tested under cross-examination.
Where I Work Most Often
Each field has its own specialists. In each, I test the same thing: whether the expert's method was sound, correctly applied and honestly reported.
Collision reconstruction and vehicle data
Speed, time-distance and momentum analysis, event data recorder and telematics downloads, and heavy vehicle dynamics. This is where I spent 26 years, and where I know every shortcut an expert can take.
Human factors, lighting and visibility
Perception-reaction time, conspicuity, glare and sightline analysis: what a person could, or could not, have seen and done in the time available.
Video, photo and photogrammetry
Frame-rate timing, speed from video, and 3D scene measurement, and whether the footage supports the conclusions drawn from it.
Shooting and incident reconstruction
Trajectory, distance and sequence of events, and whether the expert's account fits the physical evidence.
Mechanical and product failure
Brakes, steering, tires and components, and whether a failure preceded the event or was caused by it.
Fire, explosion and scene evidence
Origin and sequence analysis, and the collection and chain of custody behind the conclusions.
Intoxication and impairment evidence
How breath and blood results, and opinions on impairment, are reached, reported and presented.
Commercial vehicle and FMCSA matters
Hours of service, maintenance and inspection records as evidence of the standard of care.
If your matter turns on a discipline not listed here, call me. The first question is always the same: does the expert's method hold up?
Plaintiff and defense counsel in civil litigation. Prosecutors and defense counsel in criminal matters. Insurers and corporate counsel through their litigation counsel. I do not take instructions directly from members of the public.