Tips on Retaining a Medical Expert

• An independent medical expert must demonstrate objectivity and impartiality in the analysis and opinions that she or he is allowed to give.
• It is crucial the medical expert must be independent of the party or counsel who retained the services of the expert.
• Ensure the testifying medical expert is practicing in the clinical setting in which he/she is asked to testify.
• Do not retain a ‘Professional Expert’!
• Perform a medical license background check for professional discipline decisions: suspensions, previous malpractice claims/settlements, etc.
• Check if the medical expert’s previous decisions for any disqualifications or adverse comments by adjudicator.
• Validate CV: published literary articles/books, clinical practice, etc.
• Speak with expert before providing instructions and ask the Medical Expert to informally comment on 'standard of care'.
• Request a fee schedule with hourly rate prior retention, obtain estimate of expert services up front, document maximum fees, and advise expert to inform prior exceeding the maximum fees agreed upon.
• It is essential that the expert is provided with a detailed instruction letter that makes certain the expert addresses key issues of a case.
• Make sure the medical expert has reviewed all records pertaining to the litigation issues.  
• Limit communications with the medical expert after retention to maintain the experts objectivity and validate the expert's opinion.  

Medical-Legal Remedies, Inc. will find an Medical Expert for a small finder's fee. All Medical Experts will be researched and validated prior recommendation. The finder fee is due only when and if the Medical Expert is retained. Please contact Carol J. Rhodes RN, LNC @ (904) 223-3969 or e-mail carol@medicallegalremedies.com.