How Do You Select Expert Witnesses in Construction Arbitration?
Not every conflict needs to be solved through the courts. Our Houston construction arbitration lawyers can guide you through the arbitration process and help you fight for the best outcome. Arbitration works a bit like litigation, but it’s quicker and the decision is binding. You can call expert witnesses as if you were in court, and their testimony could end up being key to your case. That’s why selecting the right witness is so critical.
What Qualifications Do Expert Witnesses Need in Construction Arbitration?
When evaluating people who can serve as expert witnesses in your case, we consider a few different criteria. Candidates who can help in your construction arbitration proceedings should have:
- Certifications and licenses relevant to the industry
- Academic qualifications
- Practical experience in the field
- Strong communications skills
- A history of providing expert testimony
- A good reputation in the industry
- No conflicts of interests
When you have someone who meets these qualifications, their opinion carries weight. An expert witness also carries an air of neutrality, even if they are testifying on your behalf. If you say something, the opposition can just dismiss it as your side of the story. When you bring in an expert who has no connection to you and they back up your assertions, that’s a big deal.
What Kinds of Conflicts Can Expert Witnesses Help Me Solve?
Expert witnesses can assist in all kinds of cases. If you are going through arbitration for any of the following reasons, having their testimony on the record can be beneficial:
- Negligence claims
- Cost overruns
- Project delays
- Change orders
- Defects in design, workmanship, or materials
- Disputes about payments
- Insurance issues
- Liability issues
- Early contract terminations
If you can argue about it in the construction industry, it can probably be addressed in arbitration.
Who Can Benefit From Construction Arbitration?
Many of the parties involved in the typical construction project can benefit from arbitration. This process is often quicker and less expensive than court, and you don’t have to wait for free space on a judge’s docket to free up. Depending on the circumstances, we can recommend arbitration for:
- Suppliers
- Architects
- Contractors
- Subcontractors
- Engineers
- Developers
- Landowners
- Public agencies
Can a Lawyer Connect Me With Expert Witnesses?
Of course. If it helps you build a case and improves your odds of succeeding in arbitration proceedings, your lawyer can help you find expert witnesses and vet them. We can find the most convincing expert in the field and use their testimony to make your case even stronger.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Firm
If you are working in the construction industry and you’ve encountered a conflict that might be solvable through arbitration, we want to hear from you. Contact Patout & Shaw and ask to schedule a consultation with our legal team. If our experienced construction industry lawyers can help you, we’ll get right to work.
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