Expert Witness (Unit 17|18)

An APC Candidates Guide.

Unit 17|18 – Expert Witness is a specialized unit focused on the knowledge and skills that a quantity surveying professional needs to prepare and present expert evidence in legal situations.

The key aspects of this unit include:

Demonstrating Knowledge of Business and Commercial Law:

Quantity surveying professionals acting as expert witnesses must base their activities on a solid understanding of business and commercial law.

Preparing to Give Evidence:

This involves several important steps:

• Conducting thorough research on the basis of the claim.

• Identifying and obtaining all necessary documentation to prepare the evidence.

• Evaluating the information gathered.

• Preparing the evidence along with supporting documentation.

• Identifying potential weaknesses, discrepancies, ambiguities, and errors in the evidence.

• Verifying the proof of evidence.

• Advising clients on the strength of their case.

• Preparing a curriculum vitae for presentation to the court.

Briefing Counsel and Solicitors:

This requires effective communication regarding the basis of the evidence and methodology. It involves clarifying technical terms, ensuring a complete understanding of the implications, and providing any additional documentation if needed.

Giving Evidence:

Delivering a concise and clear presentation is crucial, based on a comprehensive understanding of the matter. If necessary, the professional should request additional time to prepare answers to questions that exceed existing evidence and should provide information only within their expertise.

In summary, Unit 17|18 details the specialized competencies required for a quantity surveying professional to effectively serve as an expert witness. This includes a strong understanding of relevant law, meticulous preparation of evidence, clear communication with legal counsel, and professional presentation of testimony within their area of expertise. are the key elements and aspects of this competency:

Q & A

Here is a Q&A focused on Competency Standard Unit 17|18: Expert Witness / Evidence:

Q: According to Unit 17|18, what foundational knowledge should a quantity surveying professional demonstrate to act as an expert witness?

A: A quantity surveying professional acting as an expert witness should possess knowledge of business and commercial law. Their professional activities must be grounded in a solid understanding of this area of law.

Q: What are the key steps involved in preparing to give evidence, as outlined in Unit 17|18?

A: The key steps in preparing to give evidence include:

• Thoroughly researching the basis of the claim.

• Identifying and obtaining all necessary documentation to prepare the evidence.

• Evaluating the information.

• Preparing the evidence and supporting documentation.

• Identifying potential weaknesses, discrepancies, ambiguities, and errors.

• Verifying the proof of evidence.

• Advising clients on the strength of their case.

• Preparing a curriculum vitae for presentation to the court.

Q: What does Unit 17|18 specify regarding the briefing of counsel and solicitors by a quantity surveying professional acting as an expert witness?

A: When briefing counsel and solicitors, the expert witness should:

• Clearly explain the basis of the evidence and the methodology used.

• Clarify technical terms.

• Ensure a full understanding of the implications and technical details of the evidence.

• Provide additional documentation if necessary.

Q: What are the key performance criteria for a quantity surveying professional when giving evidence in a legal setting, according to Unit 17|18?

A: When giving evidence, the professional should:

• Deliver a concise and clear presentation based on a complete and thorough understanding of the matter.

• Request time to prepare answers to questions that go beyond existing evidence, if necessary.

• Provide information only within the limits of their expertise.

Q6: What is the overarching purpose of the competencies outlined in Unit 17|18 for a quantity surveying professional?

A6: The competencies in Unit 17|18 are designed to equip a quantity surveying professional with the specialized skills necessary to effectively serve as an expert witness. This includes a strong understanding of relevant law, meticulous preparation of evidence, clear communication with legal counsel, and a professional presentation of testimony within their area of expertise.

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Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified legal professional for any legal matters or concerns.