NCJ Number
206750
Journal
Security Journal Volume: 17 Issue: 3 Dated: 2004 Pages: 31-39
Editor(s)
Bonnie S. Fisher,
Martin Gill
Date Published
2004
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article discusses factors involved in security expert witnesses effectively communicating complex concepts in a simple and concise manner in the courtroom and to the jury.
Abstract
The role of the security expert in civil litigation has become increasingly important with the increase in negligent security claims. Therefore, the expert must be able to communicate complex concepts in a noncomplex manner. The expert must educate and engage the jury which requires effective communication skills. Effective expert communication involves being able to understand jury expectations and deliver testimony accordingly; to keep testimony simple; to maintain credibility; and to reinforce their testimony with non-verbal communication that is consistent with the message. Experts must keep their testimony simple; they should view themselves as educators, using familiar terms and analogies to convey complex issues. Credibility must be established and maintained. Credibility translates into persuasiveness, and failure to maintain credibility can destroy the message. Expert witnesses need to maximize the effect of their message upon the jury by taking advantage of non-verbal communication techniques that enhance credibility and persuasiveness. 26 Notes