RIAI Expertise and Expert Witness Course

Course Aim

The aim of this course is to equip architects with an understanding of the role of the expert witness within legal and dispute resolution contexts. Delivered over three structured online half-day sessions, the course provides architects with essential knowledge of legal procedures, expert duties, and good practices in report writing and collaboration. The programme is designed to build confidence and competence in those preparing to act as expert witnesses or contribute to alternative dispute resolution processes.

Course Overview

This three-part online training series introduces participants to the legal frameworks, expert roles and responsibilities, and the development of clear, effective expert reports. Through structured lectures, interactive Q&A, and scenario-based discussions, participants will explore the legal context in which expert evidence is delivered, understand the professional standards expected, and gain insight into collaborative practices such as conferral and joint reporting. Topics include:

• Legal systems, procedures, and dispute resolution forums relevant to expert engagement
• Types of expert witnesses and their duties to clients, legal teams, and the courts
• Instruction taking, appointment processes, fee agreements, and ethical considerations
• Report writing: structure, purpose, common challenges, and drafting for legal use
• Managing collaboration between experts, including conferral, Scott Schedules, and joint reporting
• Risk management, professional obligations, and the wider value of expertise in practice

Learning Outcomes

Programme Learning Outcome for Session 1: Foundations of the Expert Role and Legal Context - 5 September

Participants will demonstrate a contextual understanding of the expert witness role within legal and dispute resolution systems, including awareness of the professional, ethical, and procedural frameworks that govern expert engagement.

On successful completion of the Session 1 lectures, participants will also be able to demonstrate the following:

1. Awareness of the various types of experts, their roles, and the contexts in which expert evidence is required.
2. Explaining the expert’s responsibilities within legal processes and the expectations of solicitors and adjudicative bodies.
3. Understanding of the range of dispute resolution forums and the expert's potential contribution in each.
4. Awareness of ethical codes, conflicts of interest, and the principle of independence in expert practice.

Programme Learning Outcome for Session 2: Expert Instruction, Reporting & Evidence Preparation - 12 September

Participants will be able to apply knowledge of expert appointment processes and demonstrate the ability to develop structured, legally appropriate written reports that meet professional and evidentiary standards.

On successful completion of the Session 2 lectures, participants will also be able to demonstrate the following:

1. Understanding of how experts are instructed, including appointment procedures, managing fees, and collaborative working.
2. Ability to structure, draft, and present an expert report that is fit for legal and dispute resolution contexts.
3. Knowledge of the varying purposes of expert reports and how these affect content, tone, and structure. 
4. Understanding of the risks associated with expert witness work, including legal liabilities and professional obligations.

Programme Learning Outcome for Session 3: Conferral, Collaboration & Practical Application - 19 September

Participants will exhibit understanding of collaborative practices among experts and demonstrate professional readiness for participation in hearings and the broader delivery of expert witness services.

On successful completion of the Session 3 lecture, participants will also be able to demonstrate the following:

1. Knowledge of expert conferral practices, including report exchange, updates, and collaborative techniques.
2. Understanding of the creation and use of Scott Schedules and joint reporting in dispute resolution.
3. Understanding of hearing preparation practices, including formality, case familiarity, and the expert's role in adversarial settings.
4. Awareness of the professional value and commercial opportunities associated with expert witness engagement.