- Support your opinions with scientific evidence.
- Make sure that the animal's medical records are detailed and accurate.
- Your credibility will, in part, depend on your thoroughness and attention to detail.
- Prior to testifying, review the records, including any previous testimony.
- Your testimony should be given with confident but not sound rehearsed.
- Advise counsel if your conclusions or interpretations have changed since writing initial reports or providing previous testimony.
- Provide the prosecuting counsel with copies of your credentials, a recent CV, publications and board certification if relevant.
- Ensure that the chain of custody of the evidence is well-documented.
- Expect that opposing counsel will question your expertise.
Copyright 2008
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