The expert witness’ responsibility is to provide a level of competence provided by education,
experience, and adequate judgement. Additionally, they should also remain focused on integrity,
maintain client confidentiality, and independence (Robert Rufus, Laura Miller, William Hahn,
2014).
Prior to accepting the engagement, the expert witness should meet with the client to perform an
evaluation of the client. Follow up with prior engagement relationships to understand why they
are no longer working with Attorney Leslie and if there were any problems that dissolved the
relationship. It is ultimately sound practice to obtain as much information on the client prior to
signing on (Deborah K Rood, 2013).
I would not accept the engagement. The probability of an undue influence threat appears to be
possible as the client is demanding and has a high expectation of his consultants and experts
through the working of long hours and the provision of information quickly. This is demanded,
but he himself does not follow suit. c Additionally, there is also the possibility of financial self-
interest threat as the client only takes on wealthy clients who pay up front but does not pay his
consultants and experts on time (AICPA, 2014).
References
AICPA. (2014, December). 2014 Code of Professional Conduct. Retrieved from AICPA:
https://us.aicpa.org/content/dam/aicpa/research/standards/codeofconduct/downloadabledoc
uments/2014december14codeofprofessionalconduct.pdf
