I want the TRUTH: Preparing to be an Expert Witness

Instructor

David
Cotton

Many practitioners dealing with government and not-for-profit issues are asked to serve as expert witnesses in courts of law or other adjudicatory venues. This session will discuss key issues you need to know when you are asked to serve in this capacity, including:

Applicable standards and other engagement acceptance considerations.
Preparation requirements and techniques.
Dos and don'ts of testifying.
Avoiding commons traps and tricks designed to undermine your effectiveness.

The session will conclude with a “mock cross-examination” with participants serving as the jury to identify what our witness does right and what he does wrong.

Learning Objectives

Why testifying as an expert is challenging, but rewarding
Standards and rules
Types of experts
How to prepare to testify
Reporting rules
Do's and don'ts of testifying
Common traps and tricks and how to handle them

Major Topics

Rules of civil and criminal procedure
Applicable standards
Testifying basics
Cross-examination techniques

CPE Credits Available

2 CPE

1: Accounting
1: Auditing

Things to Know About This Course

Course Level

Basic

Professional Area of Focus

Accounting

Advanced Preparation

None

Intended Audience

Accountants and Auditors at all levels

Provider

ACPEN