UK EXPERT WITNESS
In the United Kingdom, an expert witness is an independent professional appointed to provide impartial technical or scientific opinions in legal and insurance disputes involving damages, liability, or compensation.
Expert Witness in the United Kingdom (UK): Regulation, Roles, and Cost Structure
Unlike advocates, expert witnesses in the UK owe their primary duty to the court, tribunal, or dispute resolution body rather than to the party that appoints them.
Specific characteristics of expert witnesses in the UK
The UK operates under a common law system where expert evidence is fundamental in both litigation and insurance claims resolution.
Expert witnesses must comply with strict procedural rules, including the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR Part 35), which govern their duties, independence, and reporting standards.
Regulation of expert witnesses in the United Kingdom
There is no single government licence, but expert witnesses are regulated through professional bodies, court rules, and ethical standards.
Most recognised experts are members of institutions such as RICS, CILA, IFE, or CIArb, ensuring competence and accountability.
Functions of an expert witness in the UK
Expert witnesses assess damages, determine causation, analyse policy compliance, and quantify financial and material losses.
They prepare expert reports, joint statements, attend mediations, and may testify in court.
Fields covered by UK expert witnesses
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Fire and explosion damage
- Flooding and water damage
- Construction defects
- Medical malpractice
- Industrial and commercial losses
- Business interruption
- Engineering failures
- Environmental damage
Tariff and cost structure in the UK
Expert witness fees in the UK are typically charged on an hourly basis or as a percentage of the damages recovered, depending on the case type.
Costs generally range between 3% and 15% of the damages, influenced by complexity, expertise level, and jurisdiction.
Importance for foreign insurance policyholders
For foreign policyholders unfamiliar with UK law and language, expert witnesses play a critical role in safeguarding rights and ensuring fair compensation.
They bridge legal, technical, and linguistic gaps, especially in cross-border insurance claims.