Why We Withdrew from Our First Forensics Case

Abstract

Work in the field of forensic human factors and biomechanics can be extremely difficult, especially for new professionals working on their first case. As such, it is not uncommon for new experts to take any case that they are retained on, regardless of the feasibility of the requests made of them. It is important, however, to maintain scientific and intellectual integrity on such cases, not only to establish a positive professional reputation but to ensure that future work in the field remains feasible. This paper addresses three central factors for withdrawal considerations (case facts, attorney-expert communications, and inter-professional interactions) that are illustrated using an example case in which a bridge collapse resulted in personal injury. The experts chose to withdraw from the case when the client attorney was unable to provide crucial data and materials that were promised at time of retention.