To become an expert fire witness, one must have a background in firefighting and fire inspection, maintain honesty, and develop relationships with attorneys. Keep records of experiences and investigations, and set prices based on other expert witnesses.
Those who wish to become an expert fire witness must have a background beyond censorship for their testimony to remain unquestionably credible. In addition, they must have experience as a firefighter and fire inspector. Expert fire witnesses are used in both criminal and civil cases where determining the cause of a fire is an important part of the court process. They are hired by defense attorneys, prosecutors, and civil litigation attorneys to lend credibility to their cases. To become an expert fire witness, you must prepare yourself by receiving the proper education and experience.
Check with the fire department where you want to become an expert fire witness to determine how to become a firefighter. Take the necessary steps to be accepted into the fire academy and hired by the department of your choice. You must successfully complete the academy to be placed in a fire station. Once assigned to a squad, work as a firefighter, keeping records of your experiences to use as an expert.
Study the path it takes to become a fire inspector and take the appropriate steps to achieve that position. Depending on the department employing you, this could include specific educational requirements, a certain number or years of strength, or earning specified certifications. Upon your promotion to fire inspector, keep records of all investigations to refer back as needed for future legal proceedings. Check with your department to be sure they allow you to market your services as an expert fire witness.
Develop and maintain relationships with local attorneys. Let them know that you are available as an expert fire witness and how much your hourly fee for preparation and testimony will cost. Set your prices by calling other expert fire witnesses and getting price quotes. Dropping prices by a small amount will help get you in the door. Raise your prices once you start building a reputation as a credible expert witness.
Keep a careful record of the number of fire inspections performed on the job and the number of successes you have in resolving cases. These numbers will be important both when hiring lawyers and standing under scrutiny and cross-examination, as they will give validity to your specialist skills. Develop a policy of complete honesty at the booth. Your business as an expert fire witness will be more successful if you have a reputation for always telling the truth.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
