Expert Evidence in Engineering Disputes

Details

1-day course

CPD Credit: 6.5 hours, C1

Course Overview

Expert witness work is becoming more prevalent in Ireland, and has expanded beyond the remit of merely providing testimony in a witness box, and into a complex, and often convoluted process.  This has been put in sharper focus since the Law Commissions Report on the Consolidation and Reform of Aspects of the Law of Evidence has significant reforms in relation to expert evidence.

This course is aimed at those seeking to appoint experts in engineering disputes, as well as those experts accepting appointments. This course shall look at what is expected from an expert, and how to ensure this is delivered.

This course is aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of all aspects of being an expert, from appointment, to preparing reports, to attendance at conciliations/mediations, arbitrations, and the High Court.

This course will look at both the theory and practice behind giving expert witness testimony in all forms of dispute and ADR. It will also focus on the role of the witness and tips at how to develop skills when giving evidence.

Course Aim

This course is aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of the appointment and selection of an expert, and how when appointed, to give expert witness testimony, the preparation for trial and creation of documentation. This course will also cover expert witness work for professional engineers, and the practicalities of being an expert witness.

Course Objectives

The course will cover:

  • What is an Expert?
    • The end of "Guns for Hire"
  • How to appoint and how to be appointed?
    • What are you being asked to do?
    • How to deal with clients
  • Preparation of Report
  • Being an expert in alternative dispute resolution
    • Adjudication
    • Conciliation / Mediation
    • Arbitration
  • Preparation for Trial
    • Examination in Chief
    • Cross Examination
    • Giving Evidence general tips

Who Should Attend?

This course is designed for:

  • Expert witnesses looking a refresher on the updates in legislation following the Law Commissions Reform on Expert Evidence;
  • People looking to develop their skills and become an expert witness;
  • Those looking to appoint an expert witness and not entirely sure where to begin.

Trainer’s Profile

David McNeice, LLB, LLM, AMICE, ACIArb, Solicitor

David is a solicitor and extensive experience dedicated specifically to working in the construction and engineering sector.  David has worked with some of the UK and Ireland’s largest public authorities, contractors and sub-contractors, as well as advising all members of the supply chain on PWC, FIDIC, NEC and JCT projects. 

David is regularly invited to give guest talks and public seminars on the NEC and best practice to various institutions, including the Institution of Civil Engineers, the Chartered Institution of Builders, the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors and the Institute of Engineers Ireland.  David is also the Convenor of the Adjudication Society for Ireland. He is an Associate Member of the Institution of Civil Engineers (AMICE).

The DWF specialist construction and infrastructure legal team can manage every stage of the construction process. From inception through to completion, we have a proven track record for success from pre-contractual stages such as structure and procurement advice, negotiation and agreement of contracts including joint venture, development, project, concession, and maintenance agreements, as well as construction documentation including appointments, performance bonds, parent company, guarantees, direct agreements, and collateral warranties. Since our lawyers specialise in both contentious (including litigation, arbitration and adjudication) and non-contentious advice, the same team is able to play a valuable role in ensuring that a construction of infrastructure project is then delivered smoothly helping clients to avoid or manage problems that may arise. We use our experience and industry knowledge to deliver the results clients need in the timescales they need them.

Testimonials

  • "Excellent course"
  • "Good course. Interesting content."
  • "Very informative"
  • "Engaging"
  • "Very good overview"

Please contact the Team for further information on scheduled course dates and In-Company options. You can reach us by phone: 01 665 1305 or email cpdtraining@engineersireland.ie