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Law 101: Legal Guide for the Forensic Expert

Reviewing Other Analysts' Work

Experts may also be hired to evaluate work that another analyst has already performed. These experts may offer testimony in court or advise attorneys about other experts. In these instances, the original evidence is seldom examined. These expert opinions are generated on the basis of documentation provided from the initial expert's observations, data and reports.

Experts can be appointed directly by the court rather than appointed by a party. Their duties may include reviewing other experts' work, explaining a particular method or technology to the court and answering questions the court may have (see Federal Rule of Evidence 706).

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