We are pleased to announce the publication of a new article, “Ethical Considerations When a Lawyer Serves as an Expert Witness,” authored by Parker Shaffie LLP’s Partner and General Counsel, Joel A. Osman, and Senior Counsel, Adam J. Telanoff.
The insightful piece, recently published in the Daily Journal, addresses the specialized and often complex ethical issues that arise when attorneys provide expert witness testimony.
What the Article Covers:
- The critical difference between an attorney acting as an expert witness (impartial analysis) and acting as legal counsel (client advocate).
- Key ethical questions, including:
- Testifying as an expert adverse to a former client.
- Serving as an expert against a current firm client in an unrelated matter.
- Navigating conflicts of interest when the expert role is not considered “legal representation.”
About Joel A. Osman
Joel A. Osman is a Partner and General Counsel at Parker Shaffie LLP. He is a recognized authority in legal ethics, focusing his practice on litigation, trials, and ethics consultation. Mr. Osman frequently serves as an expert witness on legal standard of care issues and provides guidance to other lawyers and law firms. He is a former chair of the Los Angeles County Bar Association’s Professional Responsibility and Ethics Committee and a former member of the State Bar’s Committee on Professional Responsibility and Conduct.
About Adam Telanoff
Adam J. Telanoff is Senior Counsel at Parker Shaffie LLP. His career combines extensive experience in commercial litigation with a deep business perspective gained from serving as General Counsel for companies in private equity, entertainment, and for a venture-backed tech startup. He has successfully litigated cases in state and federal courts and before administrative tribunals. Adam is also an experienced educator, having taught law classes at UCLA Extension and Los Angeles Mission College.
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