Serving Plaintiffs and Defendants (adapted from NSPE Case No. 98-4)

Because of her expertise, Alexandra was retained by manufacturer XYZ for the purpose of reviewing documents to form an opinion in a patent litigation. She was paid for her services. Years later, she was approached by attorney Alexis, who represents a plaintiff in product liability litigation against manufacturer XYZ in a matter not involving any aspect of the earlier patent litigation.

Should Alexandra accept attorney Alexis' proposal and testify in this litigation?

Suppose that Alexandra does testify in this case on the plaintiff's behalf and that during cross-examination at this trial, opposing counsel questions Alexandra's previous relationship both in defense of and in litigation with manufacturer XYZ, implying that by providing those services, Alexandra was acting improperly. Years later, manufacturer XYZ requests her services again in a different patent litigation matter not related to either of the proceeding events.

Should Alexandra testify in this case?

NSPE Code of Ethics An earlier version may have been used in this case.