An expert witness is a person with particular expertise in a specialised scientific field such as engineering, whose high degree of skill, training and experience qualifies them as an ‘expert’ in their field. A judge will allow him or her to testify in court and provide an independent opinion relevant to issues in a case. This opinion will be deemed to be helpful to the jury in understanding and determining the facts.

Buro Happold has been providing an expert witness service since the company was launched in 1976. As a result of our strong international reputation and experience, this service – which spans all sectors – has been in demand world wide. Regarded as credible professionals across all structural, civil and building services engineering disciplines, we have provided evidence for court hearings, public inquiries, depositions and arbitration proceedings.

Our clients range from insurers, lawyers and loss adjusters to developers and government organisations. The recent trend towards preventing court cases has meant Buro Happold expert witnesses are also asked to sit on panels and attend ‘clinics’ to review potential disputes. By analysing all the facts and listening to all points of view, claims can often be settled before they escalate to a more serious stage.