A Guide to the Cross Examination of Experts in Condemnation Cases in New York

Cross-examination of the other side’s appraiser or expert in a condemnation case may be the most important part of your case. Appraisers and other expert witnesses often present equally impressive qualifications and expertise. Certainly, some experts testify better than others, so how does one set your valuation experts apart from your adversary’s? How does an attorney persuade the finder of fact that your evidence is correct? The answer is cross-examination. It is by cross-examination that you can establish the fundamental flaws of the other appraiser’s valuation theory, or their out and out bad faith.

This course, taught by veteran condemnation lawyer Joshua Rikon, will teach attorneys to consider the big picture and when it is best to hold key issues in reserve for trial. The program will cover how to impeach an expert on cross-examination with prior reports, as well as the methods to be employed in preparing and researching an expert so that the witness can be successfully impeached.

Learning Objectives:

1. Grasp the importance of cross-examination of an expert witness
2. Discuss the different ways to impeach an expert
3. Review successful methods of cross-examination