What Attorneys Need to Know Before Hiring a Dental Expert Witness

Choosing the right dental expert witness can make or break your malpractice case. The expert's credibility, experience, and ability to communicate effectively are all critical factors that directly influence the outcome.

1. Verify Their Clinical Experience — An expert witness should have extensive hands-on clinical experience, ideally spanning multiple decades and across a broad range of dental disciplines including general dentistry, endodontics, oral surgery, prosthodontics, and periodontics.

2. Assess Their Communication Skills — A brilliant clinician who cannot explain findings in plain language is of limited value in a courtroom. The best dental experts can break down complex procedures into clear, compelling narratives that resonate with judges and juries.

3. Confirm Their Objectivity — The most effective expert witnesses are those committed to objectivity. They should provide honest assessments even when it's not what the retaining attorney wants to hear.

4. Review Their Track Record — How many cases has the expert been involved in? Have they provided testimony at deposition and trial? A seasoned expert with a proven track record brings confidence and authority to your case.

5. Evaluate Their Availability and Responsiveness — Timing matters in litigation. An expert who is slow to respond or misses deadlines can derail your case timeline.

With over 45 years of clinical practice, a commitment to honest and thorough analysis, and a responsive, attorney-friendly approach, Dr. Berschler is the expert you want on your side.