18. Experts and expert evidence
This chapter focuses on the role of experts in civil actions. It considers when expert support is needed — whether as part of the evidence submitted in the action, or as part of the advice sought to prepare the client’s case, or perhaps for both situations; the role that the expert will take in both of the situations identified; when permission of the court is needed to engage and submit expert evidence in the action; the need to provide a cost estimate of using an expert and the costs consequences for the client in engaging expert evidence; the management and suitable direction of steps taken in advising clients and proceeding with an action to meet the court’s overall discretion to control the evidence; and the important matters to consider in engaging an expert and in managing several experts in a case.