"The ultimate value of any expert witness testimony depends solely on what weight the jury gives to the expert’s testimony."
                                                                       Learn about Bucklin

When choosing a testifying expert, attorneys repeatedly mention four traits that determine which expert they select.  The most critical is the expert's ability to synthesize facts, reach a conclusion and then present it in a credible and understandable manner.

Four traits you want in an expert witness.

	Competence - Does the expert have a high intelligence?  Is the expert knowledgeable of the standard texts, controversies and law in the field? Is the expert known and well-regarded by peers?
	Credentials -  Does the expert have the requisite degrees and certifications expected of a leader in the field? Has the expert published an article in a well-respected publication?
	Communication -  Can he write a well-organized and on-target report?  Does he speak clearly? Can he keep his cool when opposing counsel attacks?  Does he know all the dirty tricks the adverse attorney may try, and know how to handle them to your advantage" Can he explain complex matters in a manner understandable to triers of fact?
	Credibility -  Can he convey expertise and knowledge of the subject matter in a confident but not arrogant style?  Is his presentation style comfortable, understandable, and believable?  Is the jury going to believe him?  You might call this "Charisma ". A testifying expert should give the jury a crash course on the subject in an engaging way that holds people's interest. Really good experts have the skill to teach technical information in common, everyday terms without talking down to their audience. Importantly, they show how an understanding of the subject matter bears on the dispute at hand