Subjects:

Family Law

Contents:

why am I doing this?

the approach of the court to expert evidence in family proceedings

the respective roles of the expert and judge - why the professional integrity of experts is so important

the general duties of experts

what you can advise the judge about

preliminary enquiries of the expert

the nature of the brief given by the court

the letter of instruction

your enquiries

discussions between experts prior to reports being written

meetings of experts directed by the court

pre-hearing conferences with counsel and/or with the solicitor who has commissioned the ecpert report

joint instructions

where there are both criminal and Children Act proceedings

writing the report

changing your opinion

preparing for court

witness summonses-formerly known as subpoenas

what happens at and in court

at court - who can you talk to?

giving evidence

feedback and complaints

payment of experts' fees and charges

appendices.

This guide provides practical advice and comments on the role of the expert and the judge when giving evidence in proceedings under the Children Act 1989. It explains the general duties of experts, preparation of reports and how hearings relating to children approach expert evidence.