Expert Witness & Advisory Services Development and Construction Disputes
Expert witness and advisory roles in construction and development disputes involve the independent analysis, interpretation, and explanation of technical, contractual, and commercial matters to assist parties, legal counsel, and tribunals in resolving complex disagreements. These services can be provided at any stage—pre-dispute, during litigation/arbitration, or in settlement negotiations—and typically include:
Key Tasks
1. Case Review & Preliminary Assessment
- Review contracts, specifications, correspondence, drawings, and project records.
- Identify technical, scheduling, cost, and compliance issues.
- Provide early-stage advisory opinions to guide dispute strategy.
2. Forensic Analysis
- Perform detailed delay and disruption analysis (e.g., critical path method, productivity impact).
- Assess cost overruns, change orders, and damages claims.
- Evaluate compliance with industry standards, codes, and best practices.
3. Expert Reports & Opinions
- Prepare formal expert reports meeting court/arbitration rules of evidence.
- Clearly explain technical findings and their relevance to the dispute.
- Provide independent, unbiased opinions to support the fact-finder’s decision.
4. Advisory Support
- Assist counsel in developing case theories, cross-examination strategies, and settlement options.
- Translate complex construction concepts into clear, understandable terms for legal and lay audiences.
5. Testimony
- Provide expert testimony in court, arbitration, or mediation.
- Present findings clearly and withstand cross-examination.
- Support tribunals in understanding technical evidence and industry norms.
Square Edge delivers clear, independent expertise in development and construction disputes, translating complex issues into evidence-based insights that stand in court.
Core Skills & Competencies
Technical Expertise
Deep understanding of construction methods, engineering principles, design coordination, and project delivery models.
Contractual & Legal Familiarity
Proficient in interpreting construction contracts (e.g., AIA, FIDIC, bespoke agreements) and understanding legal concepts such as breach, negligence, and quantum.
Analytical Rigor
Advanced skills in schedule analysis, cost evaluation, and causation assessment, often using industry-standard software and methodologies.
Communication Skills
Ability to present complex information in clear, concise, and persuasive written and oral formats, tailored to technical and non-technical audiences.
Independence & Objectivity
Commitment to impartial, evidence-based opinions, free from advocacy bias.
Dispute Resolution Insight
Experience with mediation, arbitration, adjudication, and litigation procedures, including evidentiary requirements and expert protocols.
