Can I hire an expert witness?

[WickedWahine_01]

I am going to be sued in small claims here in California. The ONLY way that I will be able to prove that I am not responsible (and win my case), is to hire an expert witness.

What I need to know is this: Can I countersue for the costs I incur as a result of having to hire an expert witness? I know that court costs can be included in a countersuit, but I wasn't sure about an expert's testimony.

Please advise! I really need your help!

Thanks for all who respond!

WickedWahine_01

 

[I AM ALWAYS LIABLE]

I am going to be sued in small claims here in California. The ONLY way that I will be able to prove that I am not responsible (and win my case), is to hire an expert witness.

What I need to know is this: Can I countersue for the costs I incur as a result of having to hire an expert witness? I know that court costs can be included in a countersuit, but I wasn't sure about an expert's testimony.

Please advise! I really need your help!

Thanks for all who respond!

WickedWahine_01

My response:

No, not in Small Claims court. Each litigant is expected to bring all necessary papers, things, witnesses, etc. to court to either prosecute their case, or to defend against the allegations.

Costs of gathering and bringing materials, and people, to court are each litigant's nonreimbursable financial responsibility.

If you were being sued in a court of greater jurisdiction; i.e., Superior Court, then there are methods of holding the losing party responsible for such costs.

IAAL