Christine Funk, J.D.
Christine Funk, J.D., is a dual-qualified criminal defense attorney and forensic science consultant who has trained lawyers, judges, and law enforcement across three continents in various forensic science disciplines.
Affidavits of Merit in Medical Malpractice Cases
Expert-backed affidavits streamline medical malpractice claims, ensuring validity and reducing frivolous lawsuits.
Posted on January 25, 2018 in Medical Malpractice & Expert Witness
Working With Forensic Expert Witnesses: A Litigator’s Guide
If you have a case involving forensic science, it’s a good idea to hire a forensic expert witness. However, before you go out and hire the first forensic scientist you find in the relevant field, consider why you are hiring a forensic expert witness. Reasons to hire a forensic expert include the following: Gathering background
Posted on February 15, 2018 in Expert Witness & Selection & Vetting & Daubert & Frye
Expert Witness Deposition Questions: A Comprehensive Guide
Effective deposition of expert witnesses requires strategy and preparation. Key tactics include challenging evidence integrity, the expert’s competence, their conclusions, and the reliability of the lab.
Posted on February 20, 2018 in Reports & Testimony & Depositions & Exams & Expert Witness
Daubert vs. Frye: A State-by-State Comparison
This guide provides a state-by-state comparison of how Daubert and Frye standards are applied to determine the admissibility of expert testimony, highlighting the diverse legal approaches across the United States.
Posted on March 13, 2018 in Daubert & Frye & Evidence Rules
Locating, Retaining, and Employing Effective Expert Witnesses
Proactively seek and evaluate expert witnesses early to strengthen your case. Their testimony can be pivotal, often leading to settlements without trial.
Posted on March 7, 2018 in Selection & Vetting & Expert Witness
Withdrawing an Expert Witness: Civil vs. Criminal Cases
Choosing not to call an expert witness can result from various reasons, but the rules differ in criminal and civil cases regarding whether the opposing side can use that expert.
Posted on March 22, 2018 in Expert Witness & Daubert & Frye
Independent Medical Examinations: 3 Ways To Avoid Suspected Physician Bias
Independent medical exams assess injuries objectively, but concerns about bias persist. Selecting ethical, board-certified physicians and clear communication can help ensure credibility.
Posted on April 3, 2018 in Selection & Vetting & Expert Witness
Special Requirements for Medical Malpractice Expert Testimony
Medical malpractice expert testimony rules vary by state, with some requiring specific qualifications, specialties, or recent experience to ensure reliable, credible opinions.
Posted on April 17, 2018 in Medical Malpractice & Daubert & Frye & Reports & Testimony & Expert Witness
Ethical Considerations For Working With Expert Witnesses
Attorneys must navigate ethical challenges when working with expert witnesses, from client confidentiality to fair compensation, ensuring integrity and compliance with professional rules.
Posted on April 24, 2018 in Ethics & Guidelines & Expert Witness
Can A Non-Retained Expert Be Compelled To Testify?
Courts rarely compel non-retained witnesses to testify, but in rare cases, they may. Expert witnesses face stricter disclosure rules, making compulsion difficult.
Posted on May 29, 2018 in Reports & Testimony & Daubert & Frye & Expert Witness