How engagements work
Conflicts check first. Everything else follows.
A clear process protects everyone: counsel, the client, and the independence of the opinion. No step is skipped, and no engagement discussion happens before conflicts are cleared.
Conflicts check
Submit the parties, opposing counsel, the general nature of the matter, and key dates. Do not send privileged material or the full file at this stage. We confirm whether clearance is possible before any further discussion.
Written instructions
Once cleared, counsel confirms in writing: the questions to be addressed, the scope of the opinion, the documents to be provided, and the deadlines that apply.
Evidence review
The project record is reviewed and organised: contracts, drawings, specifications, schedules, changes, payments, photographs, and site records. Gaps are flagged early, with a request for what would fill them.
Analysis
Delay, quantum, or defect analysis is carried out on the evidence, with methods and comparisons documented as the work proceeds — not reconstructed afterwards.
Report
A report that states the questions, the evidence considered, the method, the conclusions, and the assumptions and limitations — prepared so it can be tested by opposing counsel and relied on by the decision-maker.
Hearing support, if required
Where the matter proceeds, preparation and attendance support is arranged with counsel, consistent with the expert's duty to the court or tribunal.
What to send — and when
For conflicts: parties, opposing counsel, matter type, key dates. After clearance: the instruction letter and the project record. Not before clearance: privileged advice, strategy documents, or the full file.