Documentation In The Small Forensic Engineering Office

Journal Article Title: Documentation In The Small Forensic Engineering Office
Article Author(s): EGERER, HERBERT, P.E.
Volume: 2
Volume #: 1
Month: June
Year: 1985

Abstract:

In order for the forensic engineer to be effective in his or her task, the forensic engineer must possess a number of qualities that allow that task to be accomplished successfully. One of these qualities is credibility. Unless the forensic engineer has credibility, the task at hand can not be brought to a successful conclusion. In a recent decision the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals found that where "the only evidence was conflicting expert testimony" a "new trial was granted on the trial Judge's finding of credibility, and when the resolution of a case boils down to credibility, the jury must be permitted to determine the weight to be given to each witness's testimony. "In other words, the jury will decide which expert witness has more credibility. Let's briefly look at the definition of the word "credibility;" it is derived from the word "credit," which, according to Webster, means: "Capable of being believed; reliance on the truth of something; trust; reputation derived from the confidence of others; esteem; good name; a source of honor or good standing."