Approach and independence
A clear appointment. A clear scope. An independent view.
The engagement structure is designed to protect independence, clarify expectations and keep the work focused on the question that matters.
How we work
From instruction to deliverable
How an appointment is made
We agree the question, scope, reporting line, information required and intended deliverable before substantive work begins.
Our conflict check
Before confidential or privileged information is sent, we ask for the names of the relevant organisations and parties so that potential conflicts can be checked.
Our independence commitments
- No success fees. Our fees never depend on the outcome of a claim, dispute or decision.
- Fees agreed in writing. Scope and fee are agreed in writing before any work starts.
- No design conflicts. We do not act where our principal, or a connected firm, is or was the Engineer or designer.
- Our opinions are our own. Clients may test our reasoning but may not direct our conclusions.
- Duty to the tribunal. As expert witnesses, our overriding duty is to the tribunal, not the appointing party.
Dispute board and adjudicator appointments
Appointments are approached with procedural discipline, clear boundaries and an independent assessment of the technical issues within the referral.
Specialist investigations
Where a matter requires focused technical investigation, the scope is defined around the issue to be tested and the evidence needed to support a defensible conclusion.
Independence
Structured into the appointment
Our independence commitments apply across advisory, dispute board, adjudication and expert witness appointments.
