Can doctors choose plaintiff or defense cases?

Physicians can choose which sides and matters to consider. Their method and professional obligation should remain the same regardless of who retains them.

The practical point

Choose plaintiff, defense, either, or no stated preference without changing the evidence standard.

Begin with scope, not an earnings promise

Expert work is a professional service, not passive income. Start with the clinical questions you are qualified to address, records required, time available, and opinion limits. Hive does not guarantee case volume, engagement, or earnings.

What to prepare

• An accurate current CV, practice status, licenses, and certifications.
• A concise specialty scope, including questions you will not address.
• Availability, conflicts, side preferences, and a transparent rate schedule.

How to evaluate a matter

Review a minimum-disclosure summary first. Confirm fit, deadline, records, and conflicts. Use the same clinical method regardless of retaining side, distinguish evidence from uncertainty, and decline work that requires an unsupported conclusion.

Related physician guides

• How do doctors become expert witnesses?
• How much do physician expert witnesses charge?
• Do expert witnesses have to testify?

Educational information only. Qualification requirements vary by jurisdiction and matter. This is not legal advice.