What is an expert witness?

An expert witness is a person who has specialized knowledge in a particular area of law or science and can provide evidence to the court that reflects their expertise. In Louisiana, expert witnesses are used in both civil and criminal court proceedings. Experts offer their professional opinion to the court based on their competencies and renowned knowledge in the field they specialize in. This could be an experienced medical doctor, engineer, and even a psychologist who is considered knowledgeable and experienced enough in a particular field to offer their expert opinion to the court. Expert witnesses also can provide scientific evidence in criminal trials. For instance, a forensic scientist might present evidence from tests performed on a piece of physical evidence or an expert in handwriting might compare handwriting samples from an alleged suspect. In Louisiana, expert witnesses can be called on to testify on behalf of either side in a trial, whether it is to support the prosecution or offer testimony to help the defense. For a witness to be classified as an expert witness, they must have been formally trained and posses a degree that qualifies them as an expert in the particular field.

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