On 28 January 2026, Clyde & Co had the opportunity to attend the opening session of McCollum Consultants’ 2026 Expert Witness CPD Programme, held at The Spire Hospital in Manchester. The event marked the beginning of a series of CPD‑accredited training evenings designed to support the development of McCollum Consultant's expert witnesses and strengthen collaboration between medical experts and legal professionals.

The session was led by Gerard McDermott KC, joined by Michelle Hornsby FCILEx, who together delivered a structured and insightful lecture relevant to both expert witnesses and those who instruct them. The evening focused on one of the most crucial elements of litigation - the selection and instruction of medicolegal experts. 

Key themes from the session

1. Understanding Core Duties

The speakers emphasised the distinction between the duties owed by legal teams and those owed by experts, reinforcing the importance of independence, clarity, and objectivity in expert reporting. 

2. Best Practice in Expert Reports

The session highlighted techniques for producing stronger CPR-compliant expert reports, encouraging a critical approach that ensures accuracy, transparency, and a clear link between professional opinion and evidential foundation.

3. The Rise of Artificial Intelligence

While AI is being increasingly utilised in both the medical and legal fields, caution is required. Although AI can increase efficiency in reading medical records or drafting reports, legal practitioners expect experts they instruct to personally review the records, avoiding situations where, for example, in cross‑examination, an expert may be challenged for not having read the material themselves.

It is crucial to balance the use of AI with human expertise to ensure quality, reliable, medicolegal evidence is produced. 

Panel Discussion: Sector‑Wide Perspectives

One of the most engaging parts of the evening was the panel discussion moderated by Gerard McDermott KC. The panel featured leading voices from both claimant and defendant practices:

• Fiona Tinsley (Brabners)
• Jennifer Dougal (Premex)
• Marc Harries (Clyde & Co)
• Peter Walmsley (Horwich Farrelly)

The panel offered valuable insights into the shared challenges and opportunities within litigation from both the claimant and defendant perspectives.

Collaboration in Litigation 

Beyond the learning, the event provided a great opportunity to connect with experts and fellow legal professionals. We both look forward to attending the next event in the series on 31 March 2026.