The expert should not just simply reflect the position established by an attorney. Instead, the expert is presented with a problem; afforded an opportunity to test, investigate, and evaluate the facts and evidence; and asked to reach a conclusion.

If the expert acts as a witness dedicated to a particular conclusion, reached independently and based upon available data and conclusions, he or she will be believable because the expert has a basis and conviction in the opinion. On the other hand, if the conclusion the expert espouses is that of the attorney, or is not supported by the data, the expert will not be believable.

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