Discovery of Forensic Engineering Records

Abstract

Mr. Expert - how much did you make last year testifying for attorneys involved in litigation such as this case? or What was your total or gross income last year? or I demand that you furnish a copy of your income tax return for the last three years or seven years. or How much of your income comes from being hired to testify in personal injury or product liability cases? It does not take much analysis to show that this type of questioning is harassing, intimidating and discourteous. It also shows that there are pitfalls for unwary expert witnesses who will hear their answers from deposition transcripts on previous trials being used in opening statements or cross examination to show that they are hired guns, bought and paid for experts, biased, legal prostitutes, etc. This is especially true if they have allowed themselves to be coerced or intimidated into revealing their income or furnishing records of same.