by McCollum Consultants
On Friday, 7th November 2025, the 2025 Bond Solon Expert Witness Conference took place in Westminster. The event, alongside its annual survey, provided valuable insights into the current state of expert witness practice in the UK.
Drawing on contributions from over 500 experts across a wide range of disciplines, the findings depict a profession at a pivotal stage navigating calls for greater regulation while responding to the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence.
Regulation and Professional Standards
A clear majority (59%) of experts surveyed believe that formal regulation would help to raise professional standards. This finding reflects increasing political and judicial concern regarding the limited oversight of expert evidence, particularly in light of recent high-profile criminal and civil cases.
For clinical experts working in personal injury and medical negligence, this issue is of particular importance. While doctors and other healthcare professionals are regulated by their respective professional bodies, their work as expert witnesses currently falls outside that framework.
Many within the profession, including those at McCollum Consultants advocate for the establishment of clearer accreditation pathways, mandatory CPR 35 training, and structured continuing professional development tailored specifically to expert witness practice.
Training, Accreditation and Relationships with Instructing Solicitors
The survey also revealed that more than 70% of respondents support the introduction of mandatory training and assessment as part of any future regulatory framework. At McCollum Consultants, we strongly endorse this approach and have long championed best practice in expert witness education, accreditation, and professional conduct.
Every consultant joining McCollum Consultants undergoes a rigorous selection and onboarding process. Each applicant’s clinical credentials, medico-legal experience, and communication skills are carefully assessed to ensure that only recognised specialists of the highest calibre are invited to join our network.
Once appointed, new experts undertake structured medico-legal training covering report writing, courtroom skills, CPR Part 35 compliance, and the principles of independent expert evidence. This is complemented by ongoing appraisal, peer review, and both internal and external continuing professional development (CPD).
We also place strong emphasis on maintaining effective and professional relationships with instructing solicitors. Our consultants are supported to provide impartial, clear, and well-reasoned opinions, while adhering to the highest standards of independence and integrity.
Through this combination of robust assessment, continuous training, and dedicated support, McCollum Consultants ensures that every expert is fully equipped to deliver reliable, authoritative, and evidence-based opinions in line with best medico-legal practice.
The Role of Case Coordinators
Late payment, incomplete instructions, and unrealistic deadlines remain among the most common frustrations reported by experts, highlighting the importance of mutual professionalism and clear communication between experts and instructing solicitors.
At McCollum Consultants, these challenges are addressed through our team of dedicated Case Coordinators. Much like clerks in a barristers’ chambers, our Case Coordinators play a central role in managing the smooth progression of each case. They act as the vital link between experts and solicitors, ensuring that instructions are complete, deadlines are realistic, and communication remains clear and efficient throughout.
Each coordinator is supported by our bespoke, in-house case management system, designed by our own coding team to streamline administration, track progress, and ensure accuracy at every stage. This tailored approach allows us to provide a highly responsive and professional service to both experts and legal teams alike.
Our Case Coordinators are always on hand to assist with new instructions, ongoing matters, and any queries that arise, ensuring that every case proceeds efficiently and that our experts can focus on delivering high-quality, independent medico-legal opinion.
Artificial Intelligence
This year’s survey also explored the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in expert witness practice. One in five respondents reported using AI tools, primarily to assist with research, drafting, or data analysis. Yet almost 90% of experts expressed the view that formal judicial guidance is needed to clarify when and how such tools may be used.
As clinical evidence becomes increasingly data-driven, AI offers potential opportunities to improve efficiency, streamline administrative tasks, and enhance analytical insight. However, as highlighted in the recent Bond Solon Expert Witness Conference and the October 2025 Judicial Guidance on AI, expert witnesses must remain fully responsible for verifying any AI-generated content.
Accuracy, confidentiality, and professional integrity remain paramount. Experts must ensure that AI is used only as a support tool, not as a replacement for professional judgment, and that all outputs are carefully reviewed, validated, and documented. For a detailed discussion of AI use in medico-legal reporting, see our article: The Use of AI Tools by Expert Witnesses, which outlines practical guidance, potential risks, and judicial expectations.
Looking Ahead
The survey highlights a profession in transition. Calls for accreditation, greater transparency, and clear guidance on emerging technologies are shaping the future of expert evidence in the courts.
As the UK’s leading Chambers of Clinical Expert Witnesses, we remain committed to supporting our experts through training, peer support, and rigorous standards, ensuring that every report, opinion, and appearance reflects the integrity and excellence that the courts and our clients expect.
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