Handling the “Yes or No” Question: How An Experienced Expert Witness Can Combat Challenges

One of the most challenging parts of working with a highly qualified expert witness in the legal field is that the other side is likely to try to “trap” him or her using the famous “yes or no” questions. On cross examination or a deposition, an expert witness is likely to be asked these types of questions because the other side believes that such a short answer either supports their case or undermines yours.

There are many ways to avoid such a predicament, so long as your legal expert witness is familiar with the options. An individual with experience can likely identify such an experience and respond in a way that addresses the question but also the ambiguity of the situation. One such example might be a response stating “I understand that this is a yes or no question, but answering it could be misleading to the court as it’s an incomplete answer.” Another option would be for the expert witness to answer truthfully with a “yes” or “no” followed by “under specific conditions”.

The bottom line is that it is important to work with a legal expert witness who will not be thrown off by the tactics used by the other side. Instead, a true professional will remain calm and present his or her points clearly, leading to the support of your case. Expert witness selection is a vital stage of your case and one that should be approached with caution.

Recent Posts
JOHN PRESTON1060 CLARENDON CROAKLAND, CALIFORNIA510-763-9131#87237JOHNPRESTONMEDIATION@GMAIL.COM IN RE ARBITRATION R.N. AND RELATED PARTIES,Petitioner,vs.R.S.,Respondent. Case No.: 2012  NS-1 AWARD OF ARBITRATOR This matter came on for regularly scheduled hearing on April 8, 9, 10, and 22, 2013 before the arbitrator, John S. Preston.  The arbitrator makes the following findings of fact. I  FINDINGS OF FACT (A)  THE […]
Hiring a legal expert witness becomes necessary when you are retained for a case involving legal malpractice. The expertise of this witness is required to show where legal malpractice did or did not occur in your client’s case. Selecting the proper legal expert witness for your client’s case can be quite the challenge. As all attorneys know, […]
In many cases, your client is emotional and angry, which can hinder reaching a reasonable settlement. Many clients feel that if they settle, they are going to be perceived as weak by the opposing side. However, there are steps you can take to show your clients that settling is an excellent option. Even though attorneys […]
1 2 3 10
Location:
1138 Skycrest Dr. #4
Walnut Creek, CA 94595
Contact Us:
510-289-0766
© 2024 John S. Preston Mediation & Arbitration • All Rights Reserved

Website Created By: Mediation.com