FOR LAWYERS:
Memorandum of Understanding Regarding Experts

-- Panel Experts

LawPhysicians has agreements with experts nationwide in nearly all the medical and paramedical specialties. We refer to these individuals as panel experts. The agreements allow us to present their credentials (usually in the form of a CV and fee schedule) to an attorney, law firm or other individual or agency contemplating employing an expert to consult and/or serve as an expert witness. The agreements specify that all billing and payments will be from our office. We are entitled to retain a certain percentage of their fees for case review and consultation, for deposition and trial testimony or for other performed for our client in connection with a case. Direct hiring or payment of a panel expert by the attorney or other client is specifically prohibited.

With panel experts, we usually request a 4-hour retainer for the expert's services plus $175 for expenses and administrative fees. For example, a deposit for an expert who charges $250 per hour for case review would be $1175. On receipt of the deposit, we will send the client a contract for the expert's services for signature and notify the expert to begin work on the case at our client's instruction. No work is to be done by the expert until a deposit is received in our offices. Services beyond those covered by the initial deposit will be billed to the client.

-- Non-Panel Experts

Sometimes we do not have a panel expert who is suitable geographically or for other reasons or the client requires someone with very special knowledge, credentials or research experience. In this case we will undertake a search for a non-panel expert. We maintain a large database of experts in the medical and scientific fields and can usually find an appropriate person in a short time. Our standard search fees for a non-panel expert or IME physician are $350-$500, payable in advance. The exact fee depends on the time, geographic and specialty requirements of the client and will be quoted in advance. If we are unable to provide a suitable expert within the agreed time, a refund minus a $75 registration and processing fee will be made. Checks should be sent to LawPhysicians at our California mailing address.

The client is free to contract with and pay a non-panel or IME expert directly. Payment of our search fee satisfies the obligation to us. No contract for non-panel expert services is available and we do not guarantee the authenticity or accuracy of information provided by the expert. Checking of credentials, possible credibility problems or conflicts of interest is up to the client. A discussion of the case with the potential expert by telephone is suggested. We do ask that you notify us promptly if you plan to use our expert or not.

Please sign and date below in the spaces provided indicating your understanding and acceptance of this memorandum and fax it to our office at (925) 933-7216. If you are not authorized to sign this document, please give it to a company official that is and insert the correct name and position. We require a signed copy of this form before initiating a search for an expert.

Obtain a printable copy.
 

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                   Signature                                     Title                    Date

Please print out this form, sign and date and send to us along with your check to LawPhysicians.