Expert witness consultancy

If you’re interested in applying your knowledge as an expert witness, we can give you the resources and support to help you step into the role with confidence.

Specialist knowledge in action

The University of Oxford’s academics are known worldwide for the depth of their knowledge. When complex technical questions arise in legal disputes, that insight can make a real difference – helping courts understand the detail and reach fair, informed decisions. 

We support academics who are interested in taking on expert witness work, making sure they understand what’s involved and feel confident doing it. 

Looking for an expert witness?

If you need an independent specialist for a dispute, litigation matter or investigation, we can help you find the right person within the University. 

Our academics have contributed to: 

  • Patent and intellectual property (IP) disputes 
  • Medical negligence cases 
  • Criminal proceedings 
  • Forensic testing and analysis 
  • Litigation experiments using specialist University facilities 

 

Get in touch to discuss your needs

Interested in being an expert witness?

Acting as an expert witness can be a rewarding way to apply your knowledge beyond academia. It can broaden your professional profile, open up new networks, and challenge you to look at your work in different ways. 

But it’s a distinct role – and it comes with real responsibility. 

What an expert witness does

An expert witness is asked to help the court understand a specialist issue in dispute. Your duty isn’t to ‘win’ the case for the side instructing you. It’s to provide an independent, objective and clearly reasoned professional opinion – even if that opinion isn’t what they were hoping for. 

The work might involve: 

  • Writing formal, court-compliant expert reports 
  • Contributing to patent, IP, medical negligence or criminal cases 
  • Carrying out forensic testing or litigation experiments 
  • Giving evidence in court and being cross-examined 

You’ll receive a detailed brief from the instructing lawyer explaining the background to the claim, who’s involved, what questions you’re being asked to address, the key documents, relevant deadlines and the agreed budget. 

What makes a good expert witness

Alongside strong subject expertise, solicitors consistently look for people who are: 

  • Impartial and independent 
  • Clear, jargon-free communicators 
  • Confident and professional 
  • Thorough and efficient 
  • Guided by strong integrity 

There are practical considerations too – including secure systems for handling confidential material, professional indemnity insurance, and sensible, workable terms and conditions. 

 

 

Preparing for the role

We strongly recommend formal training before taking on your first instruction. Being a specialist in your field is one thing; writing court-ready reports and giving evidence with confidence is another. 

Bond Solon, a leading legal training provider, offers practical courses covering report writing, courtroom skills and cross-examination – helping you feel properly prepared before you step into the role. 

Learn more about training options

‘I sincerely thank OUI for their expert report introduced into evidence during medical malpractice litigation in an appellate court in France. The OUI report was critical to the positive outcome obtained in the court's decision. Thank you again!’ 

Dimitri Philopoulos, Attorney-at-law, Paris Bar 

Oxford University Innovation sign mounted on the exterior wall of the building

How we help

If your work is arranged through OUI, you’ll be covered under the University of Oxford’s insurance – giving you protection and peace of mind. 

If you’re curious about getting involved or simply want to explore whether it’s right for you, we’d be very happy to talk it through.

Contact us about consulting