Book excerpt: The Expert in Litigation and Arbitration provides the complete picture of the role and duties of the expert witness in the UK, Germany, France, Italy, USA, Australia, Hong Kong and China. With articles and chapters from leading practitioners around the world, the book looks at the role of the expert in many different disciplines and jurisdictions, examining topical issues such as the independent status of the expert and professional liability. This book looks at the role of experts in both arbitration and litigation, considering how experts are currently used in civil actions and what lessons can be learnt from this. With much practical advice for the inexperienced expert witness, it covers many of the pitfalls faced by experts, looking at the various situations that can arise either in court or before an arbitrator.