How to Hire a Vocational Expert: A Practical Guide for Attorneys
Selecting a vocational expert comes down to credentialing (CRC, CVE, ABVE/D or F), testifying experience in the relevant jurisdiction, case-type specialization, and clear methodology. Early retention matters. Expect a written engagement agreement, a scope that covers evaluation, report, and testimony, and defined deliverable timelines.
When to retain
Retain a vocational expert as early as practical once earning capacity, employability, or vocational rehabilitation is likely to be at issue. Early involvement allows input on the medical record, functional capacity evaluation referrals, and deposition strategy.
Credentials to look for
Core credentials include the CRC (Certified Rehabilitation Counselor) (Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification, n.d.), CVE (Certified Vocational Evaluator), and ABVE Diplomate or Fellow designations for advanced forensic work (American Board of Vocational Experts, n.d.). State licensure may be separately relevant depending on jurisdiction.
Scope of engagement
A complete engagement typically covers records review, a file review or in-person evaluation, a written report, deposition, and trial testimony if needed. Each phase has a distinct deliverable and time commitment; scope is documented in the engagement letter.
What to provide the expert
Typical materials include medical records, FCE reports, prior employment records (job descriptions, wage statements, W-2s), educational records, deposition transcripts of the claimant and treating providers, and any vocational testing previously performed.
Red flags to avoid
Be cautious of experts who cannot articulate methodology plainly, rely solely on DOT without cross-referencing O*NET (U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration, 1991; National Center for O*NET Development, n.d.), produce unsubstantiated labor market surveys, or have a history of methodology-based exclusions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a vocational expert cost?
Fees vary by case complexity and expert seniority. Engagements typically include initial review, evaluation, report writing, and testimony, each billed hourly. Detailed ranges are available on request.
How long does an evaluation take?
Most evaluations, from engagement to report, are typically 30 to 60 days from receipt of complete records, depending on records availability and whether in-person examination is required. Rush timelines can be accommodated when requested early.
Can a vocational expert testify remotely?
Yes. Remote deposition and trial testimony are widely accepted, subject to jurisdictional rules and opposing counsel agreement.
Should I use the same expert for evaluation and testimony?
Continuity is generally preferred so the testifying expert has complete familiarity with the record and the methodology applied.
Related
References
- Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification. (n.d.). Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) certification. Retrieved July 19, 2026. crccertification.comOrganization
- American Board of Vocational Experts. (n.d.). Diplomate (ABVE/D) certification. Retrieved July 19, 2026. abve.netOrganization
- U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. (1991). Dictionary of occupational titles (4th ed., rev.). U.S. Government Printing Office. dol.govGovernment
- National Center for O*NET Development. (n.d.). O*NET OnLine. U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. onetonline.orgGovernment
- International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals. (n.d.). Standards and ethics: Forensic section. Retrieved July 19, 2026. rehabpro.orgOrganization
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