Expert Witnesses

In Legal Definitions and Terms, Probate Litigation

Once an expert becomes a witness, the expert is then presented to the court as truthful, reliable, knowledgeable and qualified.

Rule 11-2(1) makes it clear that an expert has a duty to assist the court and is not to be an advocate for any party.

The expert must certify that he or she was aware of that duty and has prepared the expert opinion and will testify in accordance with that duty. Rule 11-2( 2)

In Vancouver Community College v Phillips , Barratt ( 1987) 20 BCLR (2d) 289 held that if the expert testifies as a witness, he or she may be required to produce all documents in their possession that are relevant to their opinion or their credibility.

However, if the expert does not testify and remains an advisor only, then privilege is maintained over the documents in their possession.

Trevor Todd

Trevor Todd is one of the province’s most esteemed estate litigation lawyers. He has spent more than 50 years helping the disinherited contest wills and transfers – and win. From his Kerrisdale office, which looks more like an eclectic art gallery than a lawyer’s office, Trevor empowers claimants and restores dignity to families across BC. He is a mentor to young entrepreneurs and an art buff who supports starving artists the world over. He has an eye for talent and a heart for giving back.