Gerichtssachverständiger

A Gerichtssachverständiger, or court expert, is a qualified individual appointed by a court to provide expert opinions on specific technical or scientific matters relevant to a legal case. Their role is to assist the court in understanding complex issues that fall outside the general knowledge of judges and laypeople.

The selection of a Gerichtssachverständiger is typically made by the judge, often from a list of officially appointed and sworn experts. These experts must possess demonstrable knowledge and experience in their field, which can range from medicine and engineering to accounting and psychology. Their impartiality and objectivity are paramount, and they are expected to provide an unbiased assessment based on their expertise.

The Gerichtssachverständiger's task is to examine evidence, conduct investigations, and analyze relevant data. They then compile a written report detailing their findings, conclusions, and the reasoning behind them. This report is submitted to the court and made available to the parties involved in the case.

In addition to the written report, a Gerichtssachverständiger may be called upon to testify in court, explaining their findings and answering questions from the judge and legal representatives. Their testimony helps to clarify technical aspects, assess the credibility of evidence, and ultimately aid the court in making a well-informed decision. The expert's fee is usually borne by the parties involved in the litigation, though this can vary depending on court rules and the specific circumstances of the case.