Interested in Becoming an Expert?

Become a Somek Expert Witness

Key Skills & Requirements:

• While you don’t need to have previous medico-legal experience, it is important that you remain working clinically, in a role that involves direct patient care, either within the NHS or private sector.
• For quantum experts (e.g. occupational therapists, physiotherapists, Speech and Language Therapists, prosthetists, orthotists, and dieticians) work/have worked at a senior level for a minimum of 7-8 years post qualification (subject to experience), with evidence of a degree/higher qualification.
• For liability experts (e.g. Nurses, midwives and paramedics) work/have worked at a senior level (with at least 5 years at band 6 or above) for a minimum of 8-10 years post qualification (subject to experience), with evidence of study at level 6, degree level.
• Remain registered with your professional body i.e. the HCPC or NMC with no pending or active investigations, i.e. HCPC/NMC or internal Trust investigations, involving you.
• Working in the UK for at least 5 years.
• Experience of recommending care packages [OTs only].
• Excellent verbal and written skills – an ability to write and speak clearly.
• Good analytical skills – to identify relevant issues, after reviewing all the evidence available, to provide your opinion with clarity and informed, logical clinical reasoning.
• Responsible and reliable – meeting deadlines and communicating promptly are a must.
• Time to complete the work efficiently and to a high standard. You generally need to be available for at least 8 hours per week for medico-legal work, with some availability during the working week (Mon-Fri) so you can speak to your trainer about your report and to attend case conferences, as and when required.
• Numeracy – competence in making cost recommendations [for quantum experts only].
• You will be required to travel for assessments (clean UK driving licence or ability to travel essential) [for quantum experts only].
• Commitment to training to maintain your clinical and medico-legal CPD.
• Good knowledge of/ability to apply relevant legal standards, tests and principles – you will have access to our Annual Training & Resource Package, training webinars run by expert witnesses for expert witnesses.
• A confidential workspace and access to a good computer, internet and data security facilities.

Full details on the role available when you make an enquiry.