expert witness

MedLegalNurse · Oct 7, 2004

Do expert witnesses get paid more than LNC? And what are the requirements to become an expert witness?

As an expert witness and a LNC, you set the rate you choose for either service.

Personally, expert witnessing is HIGHLY overrated and I have determined it not worth my time, trouble, stress, and income to fool with it as a service.

If I am called to testify regarding another service, then it is to defend my work but not to hold myself out as an expert.

JMHO

Lori

DSLNC · Oct 21, 2004

Do expert witnesses get paid more than LNC? And what are the requirements to become an expert witness?

I have found that most LNCs who also testify or review as an expert witness, double their fee than what they would normally charge for a review of medical records. There is a lot more work involved, as you need to have your sources verified if you are going to quote any. You need to be careful when quoting outside sources. Most experts quote only their experience and what is the common practice that they have seen followed where they work.

Qualifications in being an expert are basically that you are actively working in that field. While my background is Critical Care and ER, I have not worked in an ICU or ER for a while. I still read and keep up professionally with reviewing the latest practices in those areas, but I would not testify. However, I will review those cases as an LNC, but not give an opinion as an expert.

Hope this helps!

Wendy

Huskylover · Oct 21, 2004

Hi,

I do medical-legal consulting on the side of my regular job. I am not a legal nurse consultant. In my state to serve as an expert witness one needs to be active in the field within the past 5 years or at the time of the case. Most attorneys want a nurse with an advanced degree and one that is well spoken and comfortable with public speaking. The job of the other side is to make you look dumb and stupid so you have to have a thick skin and be able to hold your own.

BTW, one thing I tell new attorneys when I speak with them is that I will not lie. If they don't like my evaluation of the case-too bad. You can only play that cards you are dealt. It can be time consuming and you really need to know the literature, standards of care (and what is not), etc.

Good luck with your decision. HL

Lawnurse · Jan 27, 2005

To be an expert witness, you have to really know your field. It helps if you have been published. Nursing experts I have worked with generally have 20+ years of experience - its not called "expert" for nothing! You also have to be very familiar with the textbooks and journals of your field. If the case goes to trial and you are asked to testify, your testimony will be ripped to shreds by the opposing lawyer and other nursing experts will testify against you. If you don't care for the courtroom setting, you likely will not enjoy being an expert witness.

sabrahop · Jan 15, 2009

All nurses are expert witnesses on nursing standards of care. The pay is very good. $300 - $500 per hour. Most of the cases don't end up in trial anyway.

Sabra