Expert Evidence

Expert evidence is opinion evidence given by a person with specialist knowledge or experience on matters outside the ordinary competence of the court. Under CPR Part 35, expert evidence is restricted to that which is reasonably required to resolve the proceedings. The expert's overriding duty is to the court, not to the party instructing them.

In practice

No party may call an expert or put an expert report in evidence without the court's permission. The court may direct a single joint expert rather than allowing each party their own expert. Expert reports must contain a statement that the expert understands their duty to the court and has complied with it. On the small claims track, expert evidence is rarely permitted.