Climate Change Professionals Witness

The unique position of professionals who witness climate change is to take part in the global warming debate. They may act as advocates and stress a particular side of the debate, but they have a different obligation to the public than a citizen. Their witnessing must be impartial and objective to ensure the facts are correct.

However, the practice of witnessing is not easy. There are both practical and political constraints. In particular, there are tensions between the obligation to serve the public and the responsibility to respect professional knowledge. In addition, professional witnessing requires a clear and persuasive communication style to engage the public. Tension is created by the need to be persuasive in public speech and the obligation to present expert knowledge responsibly.

In criminal cases, professional witnesses can be called to testify in court. The Procurator Fiscal, Reporter to the Children’s Panel, or other legal counsel may summon them. They may also be summoned by a defense attorney, family lawyer or child lawyer. Witnesses will be given formal notices that they are required to attend in these cases.

In certain cases, a professional witness may be called upon to testify. Their role will be to interpret the facts of a case. They will be required to take oath before the court. This requires a clear understanding of their role and the GMC guidelines when giving evidence. The witness should be ready to answer questions from the barristers during the trial.

Expert testimony is an important component of civil and criminal cases. Forensic experts often testify. Judges will benefit from their expertise in complex scientific issues. As such, these professionals are crucial in deciding the fate of a case. Each case is different and so the role of an expert witness can vary.

A comprehensive investigation of the opposing expert witness is standard procedure for litigators. An attorney could be held responsible if an expert witness is not vetted properly. Therefore, it is imperative to do research on the topic and identify thought leaders and respected professionals. Conducting research is necessary to gain a better understanding of the subject and to determine if expert opinions are helpful.

Expert witnesses must establish a proper chain for custody of the evidence they provide. This chain of custody includes scholarly works, field studies and trainings that build a firm foundation of knowledge. They must also prepare a report prior to trial. This allows the opposing party the opportunity to cross-examine them.