Expert Witness Consultation: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about starting an emergency medicine or medical toxicology assignment.
What kinds of matters do you review?
We consider matters involving emergency evaluation and care, overdose and poisoning, medication toxicity and interactions, drug- and alcohol-related issues, and other questions within the selected physician’s training and experience. Scope and suitability are reviewed individually; we do not assume that every issue in a broad specialty falls within every expert’s qualifications.
Do you work with plaintiff and defense counsel?
Yes. Our work is independent and evidence-based. The conclusions may or may not support the retaining party’s position, and we do not promise a particular opinion or outcome.
Can I request a particular physician?
Yes. Select Dr. Shaun Carstairs, Dr. David Tanen, or no preference when making an inquiry. Dr. Carstairs is additionally board-certified in Addiction Medicine. The expert and scope are confirmed after suitability, conflicts, and availability are reviewed.
What should I provide initially?
Please begin with your contact information, firm or organization, jurisdiction, a brief nonconfidential overview of the medical question, the services requested, and important deadlines. Do not include patient names, medical records, or sensitive case details in the public form. We will arrange the appropriate channel for conflict-check information and records.
When should I send records?
After conflicts, scope, and engagement arrangements have been addressed. The expert will identify the materials needed and confirm a suitable transfer method. A complete, organized record set and an inventory of the files supplied help define the review.
What is the difference between screening and a complete review?
Screening is a limited assessment of an agreed question and record set. A full assignment may require additional records, literature review, an attorney conference, and a written report or testimony. Screening does not automatically include those services, and preliminary conclusions may change as information is added.
What are your fees?
Fee schedules are available on request. An initial telephone discussion of fit, scope, and availability is complimentary. Substantive work begins after the services, fees, any applicable retainer, and deliverables have been agreed.
Do you offer flat-rate screening?
It may be available for a defined assignment. The included record volume, questions, deliverable, and handling of supplemental material or expanded scope must be established in advance.
How quickly can a review be completed?
Turnaround depends on record volume, complexity, completeness, requested deliverables, and the physician’s schedule. Availability and delivery dates are confirmed individually. State any hard deadline, including time and time zone where relevant, rather than relying on an unacknowledged inquiry.
Are you available outside Southern California?
Yes. Nationwide matters are considered. Travel, remote participation, scheduling, and related terms are discussed for the specific assignment. Counsel and the expert should confirm the qualifications required for the particular matter and jurisdiction.
Can you provide a report, deposition, or trial testimony?
Those services are considered as part of the agreed scope, subject to the review, the expert’s qualifications, and availability. Please identify report, deposition, and trial dates early and communicate changes promptly.
Does sending an inquiry establish an engagement?
No. An inquiry is an initial request. Acceptance of the assignment, conflicts clearance, fees, scope, and scheduling require confirmation. Do not send additional sensitive material or assume a deadline has been accepted before those arrangements are in place.