Engaging with Employment and Personal Injury Expert, Dr. Linsey Willis

When Dr. Linsey Willis took her first expert witness case in 1998, she had no idea it would launch a decades-long career testifying in cases across the United States.

With refreshing candor and practical wisdom, Dr. Willis reveals what makes for success in the expert witness arena. Her approach combines rigorous ethics with savvy business practices. "Know what you know and know what you don't know," she advises, emphasizing that genuine expertise—not financial motivation—should drive case selection. This philosophy has served her well across numerous plaintiff and defense engagements in human resources, negligent hiring, and employment matters.

The conversation explores critical aspects of expert witnessing that rarely receive attention: how to vet potential cases through detailed attorney interviews, establish clear payment terms ("I make it very clear that I'm not going to chase down money"), and prepare thoroughly for challenging depositions. Dr. Willis shares war stories from seven-hour depositions where opposing counsel deployed intimidation tactics, and explains how she maintained her composure throughout.

For both attorneys seeking experts and professionals considering expert witnessing, this episode offers invaluable insights into creating "bulletproof" reports, navigating attorney relationships, and maintaining ethical standards in a demanding field. Whether you're a seasoned expert or considering your first case, you'll come away with practical strategies for more effective expert testimony.