Tribunal, appeal and expert witness assessments

I provide psychological assessments and expert opinion for SEND Tribunal and appeal cases, as well as for clinical negligence matters when requested by solicitors. These tribunal or appeal assessments are tailored to meet legal expectations and are written in line with current guidance for expert evidence.

As an expert witness, I bring specialist knowledge in educational psychology along with specific training in report writing and courtroom skills. My role is to provide clear, independent advice that supports fair and informed decision-making.

What this involves:

• Tribunal or appeal assessments tailored to the needs of the case

• Review of relevant documentation and reports

• Consideration of the parental case, including preferences for school placement

• Independent, evidence-based report compliant with legal standards

• Attendance at hearings when required (charged separately)

Reports are written to be free-standing, meaning they can be understood on their own without the need to refer to other documents. The aim is to present a clear picture of the child’s needs, the evidence available and the reasoning behind my professional opinion.

While I always advocate for the child’s needs and interests, my role as an expert witness remains independent and impartial. I do not act as a ‘hired gun’ or write reports to favour one side and my responsibility is to provide full, frank and objective advice based on the evidence.