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Markowitz, Forensic Healthcare Online Sample Expert Report Template The format for expert reports can vary. Aside from personal preference, other factors can also influence the look and structure of the report1. Some jurisdictions may require a specific format; attorneys may have a particular preference as to style. The expert should clarify these issues prior to generating the report. What follows is my own approach to report writing: I. Identifying Information This includes case name and the attorney for whom the report was written. II. Qualifications of the Expert Education Training Work Experience Teaching/Lecturing III. Publications Experts list of relevant writing, listing most recent first in a standardized format (APA, AMA or NLM: nurses traditionally use APA, but this is not a requirement). IV. Sources Reviewed Recitation of what documents have been reviewed prior to writing the reportshould include audio, video and photography, as well as all reports. V. Opinion(s) and Basis If more than one opinion is being provided, this should be clearly noted; the basis for the opinion should be cited (and included in the Reference section of the report). VI. References Includes all references relied upon for the Opinion(s) (mirroring the format used in the Publications section above). VII. Signature and Date It can be electronically signed, but it should be explicitly stated. Tips for Effective Report Writing Reports should be written as clearly and concisely as possible. Attempt to avoid professional jargon; the audience for the report wont be a medical audience in most cases. Make sure the opinions expressed clearly stand out. They should not be difficult for the reader to discern. Summarizing the opinion(s) in boldface and using an outline format for multiple opinions makes it easier for the reader to locate and understand them. 1 For additional ideas on formatting and language, see J Psychiatr Pract. 2011 Sep;17(5):355-9. Writing reports for lawyers and courts. Reid WH.