Since 1 June 2015 the High Court of Justice in Northern Ireland Queens Bench Division (Commercial) Practice Direction 1 of 2015, took effect, replacing the previous Practice Diection 6 of 2002 “Commercial List Practice Direction: Expert Evidence.” One inclusion ing the new Practice Direction is the expectation that expert witnesses will be suitably accredited.

“…the court will expect an expert witness to have obtained a form of accreditation as an expert witness.”

Para 7 PD01 2015

It is therefore essential that anyone appointing an expert witness in Northern Ireland ensures that they are appoint not only an highly experienced professional, but also a suitably accredited expert.

In addition to the expectation of accreditation, the Practice Direction sets out the clear rules relating to the appointment of experts and the conduct expected of them. Failure to comply with the contents of PD 1 of 2015 could have serious implications for an expert or those appointing them.

Having received training from the Academy of Experts in compliance with the High Court of Justice in Northern Ireland Queens Bench Division (Commercial) Practice Direction 1 of 2015, C60 Architects and Town Planners’ Director Roger Perrott is now able to offer Architect Expert Witness services within Northern Ireland.