Nationwide Expert Witness Service

Nationwide Expert Witness Service is a market leader in the provision of investigatory and preparatory work in both civil litigation and criminal matters. Please browse some of our investigatory specialisms using the forward/back arrows or from the top menu above.

We have many years experience in tracing and interviewing witnesses to assist solicitors and counsel in preparing civil cases. Our agents are based throughout Scotland and can assist in the preparation of case work, often in conjunction with expert reports, to assist legal professionals in ensuring the most positive results for their clients

We can interrogate phone handsets and SIM cards and analyse and retrieve stored information including deleted texts and contacts. This can be carried out at our Edinburgh office or in situ elsewhere.

Computer hardware and software can also be forensically analysed and reports on inappropriate use compiled. We can also review Crown reports and comment on the Copine Scale in indecency cases.

The increase of restraint equipment used by the Police, Prison Officers and certain other bodies, has brought into question the legality of using such items as CS Gas, batons, rigid handcuffs and forced restraint training.

Injuries arise from the use of these techniques and equipment. We can carry out independent assessment of the deployment of such techniques and equipment as well as provide training in such matters.

We can carry out forensic examination of trace evidence found at crime scenes. This ranges from DNA collection and analysis, fingerprint examination, footprint comparison, photographic support to analysing Crown Forensic Science Reports.

In addition we can carry out locus mapping of crime scenes on various formats including 3-dimensional imaging and laser generated maps. Most Crime Scene Investigation work requires a multi-discipline approach and we can project manage the various systems that can be deployed.

DNA investigations in respect of body fluids and traces can be carried out in respect of productions. We can also report on blood distribution and blood spatter.

Analysis of body fluid at locus or on production (clothing etc.) to assess the trajectory of the blood and thereafter an interpretation of the pattern of distribution.

This discipline is often engaged with our DNA Service.

DNA investigations in respect of body fluids and traces can be carried out in respect of productions as well as crime scene analysis.

We have a bespoke DNA examination facility in Glasgow and can advise on all types of DNA testing and analysis.

We can enhance CCTV, audio tapes and digital images captured on a wide variety of media. This service has been used in both criminal and civil matters.

In a number of cases we have been able to prove that CCTV tapes have been edited and amended the interpretation of what has been recorded. A transcription service regarding audio tapes can be provided.

We can advise on the manner in which documents should be treated, samples obtained and original evidence recovered. The analysis of handwriting is used in both criminal and civil matters ranging from cheque frauds to altering wills.

We have two certified handwriting and documentation examiners who can assist in a wide range of matters including disciplinary hearings as well as matters before the Courts.

We have ESDA equipment for identifying hidden indented writings on documents and the ability to identify different inks or altered documents.

We can report on methods of abuse, illegal trafficking, chemical analysis, trafficking networks, toxicology, Proceeds of Crime Act hearings and distribution systems.

Our staff have experience of law enforcement throughout the UK, Europe and worldwide. In addition we have academic experts from the Centre for Alcohol and Drug Studies at the University of West Scotland at Paisley.

Extensive data base on drug valuations and availability. Reported on over 4,000 drug cases since 2001. We can also advise on drug detection methods and on prevention and detection systems currently available. We also have experts on the interpretation of drug related ticklists.

We can carry out locus and facial enhancement of digitally stored images and prepare reports on physical attributes matching images or showing dissimilarity.

In addition to above we have psychologists who can report on the problems encountered by humans when identifying individuals.

The investigation of fires is a complex task and we can provide experts who carry out assessments of fire loci, chemical analysis of substances and review of Crown Fire Reports and Insurance Reports.

In addition to being expert witnesses who can report on the causes of fires, we can also assess improvised explosive devices and items that can be used to create such devices.

We can examine all types of firearms either in situ or at premises in Dundee or Glasgow. Locus visits can be conducted to establish range, suitability for use, risk assessment, etc.

We can report on CS gas canisters and other prohibited weapons.

We have carried out assessment in embezzlement and fraud cases where valuations have been made in respect of sums stolen. We have assessed the methods used and provided expert evidence on the minimum and maximum sums that have been involved.

This service is also used in Proceeds of Crime Act Hearings where confiscation orders are made.

We have a panel of doctors who can report on Accident and Emergency Care, back injuries, general surgery and road traffic related injuries.

In addition we have psychiatrists and psychologists who can report on a wide range of examinations in respect of psychological problems and psychiatric conditions relevant to judicial proceedings or matters subject to life restriction orders or personal injury.

Please consult us regarding the specific requirements of your case and we will endeavour to match the appropriate specialist to the matter under examination.

We have experts based in Glasgow and Aberdeen who are qualified in crash/accident re-construction. This service can be applied in criminal case work relating to speeding, dangerous or careless driving to fatal collisions.

We can carry out detailed locus inspections, locus mappings, report on Crown Expert reports and assess the scientific evidence and maths used to reach conclusions in serious criminal road traffic matters.

This expertise is also applied in the Civil Courts and has proved invaluable in proving or disproving claims made in civil actions. In addition to civil and criminal cases we have been used by law firms and local authorities to prepare evidence in fatal accident inquiries.

We can also assess agricultural vehicles, HGV's and other road using heavy plant machinery. Assess tyres, breaking systems and all matters pertaining to vehicle use including drivers hours.