Expert Witnesses & Their Use in Divorce Cases

How Are Expert Witnesses Utilized in a Divorce?

Divorce proceedings do not always involve a straightforward division of assets and parenting schedules. In many cases, complexities arise that necessitate the expertise of qualified professionals (i.e. expert witnesses).

Expert witnesses are individuals who possess specialized knowledge and experience in a particular field. They leverage this expertise to advise the court on specific aspects of the divorce settlement. Their involvement can be crucial in achieving a fair and well-informed resolution, particularly in areas like:

• Asset and debt division. When a couple owns a business, has valuable investments, or hidden assets are suspected, forensic accountants or business valuation experts can be called upon. They can provide the court with an accurate assessment of the marital estate's value, facilitating a more equitable distribution.
• Child custodymatters. For contested child custody arrangements, child psychologists or therapists may be appointed. These experts evaluate the family dynamics, assess the children's needs, and offer recommendations on parenting plans that prioritize the children's well-being.
• Spousal maintenance. In cases where one spouse requires financial support after the divorce, vocational experts can provide insights into their earning potential and future employability. This information helps determine a fair spousal maintenance agreement.

Expert witnesses can significantly impact the outcome of a divorce. Their analysis and professional opinions can clarify complex issues, ultimately aiding the court in reaching a well-informed decision that best serves everyone involved.

Who Can Serve as an Expert Witness?

In Washington state, the admissibility of expert testimony hinges on Evidence Rule 702. An expert witness can be qualified through knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education in a specialized field. Their testimony is allowed if it helps the court understand the evidence or determine a fact at issue.

Notably, the expert's opinion must be based on reliable foundations and methodologies used by their field. This ensures the credibility and relevance of their expertise in assisting the court. When an expert testifies, they must also make sure that they only speak to the facts and do not offer opinions or make inferences.

It is also important to note that the court can appoint experts on its own motion and of its own selection. While either party can file to have an expert witness appointed in a case, the court does have the discretion (see Evidence Rule 706). For instance, in complex family law cases, particularly those involving child custody or significant assets, the court may appoint a neutral expert witness at its own discretion.

This is done to ensure a well-rounded understanding of the situation beyond what each party presents. An objective expert can provide the court with insights on child development, mental health evaluations, or complex financial assessments.

Their impartial testimony can be crucial in reaching fair and informed decisions, especially when issues surrounding the children's best interests or equitable division of assets are highly contested. While an expert retained by either party may also come to the same conclusions as an expert appointed by the court, the court-appointed expert is not beholden to either party or their agenda, and their opinion and findings are free from potential influence.

Types of Experts You May Retain

The kind of expert you need by your side depends heavily on the specifics of your case. Some of the experts commonly employed in divorce cases include:

Financial experts

These professionals can bring clarity to complicated fiscal situations.

• Business valuation experts. If a couple owns a business, a business valuation expert will determine its fair market value. This is crucial for dividing ownership or determining a buyout.
• Financial advisors. They can advise on dividing investment accounts, retirement savings, and future financial planning in the wake of a divorce.
• Appraisers. Real estate appraisers determine the market value of properties, while jewelry appraisers value precious stones and metals. This helps ensure an equitable division of assets.
• Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and forensic accountants. As we mentioned, these professionals can analyze income, expenses, and assets to provide a clear picture of the marital estate. They can uncover hidden assets, trace income, and value complex financial holdings.

Child-related experts

Whether you wish to gain more insight into the parent-child relationship or parental fitness, child-related experts can help you.

• Child therapists. They can provide emotional support and guidance to children during and after a divorce to help them cope with the changes.
• Child custody evaluators. These licensed professionals, often psychologists or social workers, conduct evaluations to determine the best custody arrangement for the children. They interview parents and children, assess home environments, and make recommendations based on the children's needs.

Other experts

You may need the help of other specialists or professionals who can speak to specific circumstances in your case.

• Vocational experts. If a spouse seeks spousal support and their earning capacity is in question, a vocational expert can assess their job skills and potential for future employment.
• Tax experts. They can advise on the tax implications of divorce settlements, including property division and alimony payments.
• Addiction specialists. In cases where substance abuse (or another addiction) is a factor in the divorce, an addiction specialist may be needed to evaluate the situation and recommend treatment plans.

Each of these professionals can play a vital role in addressing specific aspects of a divorce case. With their combined expertise, individuals going through a divorce can achieve a resolution that is fair, informed, and as amicable as possible, paving the way for a smoother transition into the next chapter of their lives.

Legal Guidance Through the Divorce Process

Our experienced divorce attorneys can guide you through every step, from navigating the legalities to building a strong case strategy. When necessary, we can collaborate with expert witnesses to strengthen your case. Get in touch with us for more information.