K9 Forensic Assessments – Independent Assistance Scheme

Independent expert assistance for members of the public

At K9 Forensic Assessments, we recognise that the cost of obtaining independent expert evidence can be difficult for some individuals involved in proceedings under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

Although we are a commercial expert-witness practice, we believe that, in appropriate circumstances, an individual's ability to obtain independent professional assistance should not depend entirely upon their ability to pay.

We therefore undertake a limited number of pro bono type and behavioural assessments each year for members of the public who would otherwise be unable to obtain appropriate independent expert assistance.

The scheme is deliberately limited so that we can continue to provide the same high standard of service to our existing clients.

The only charge we make is the cost of fuel from assessors and handlers home address to and from canine examination centre.

E.G Postcode A - Postcode B - Postcode A 70 Miles @ .45p Per Mile = £31.50

Postcode C - Postcode B - Postcode C 90 Miles @ .45p/Mile = £40.50

Total to Pay £72 plus VAT.

What assistance can be provided?

Subject to the circumstances of the individual case, assistance may include:

Section 1 type/conformation assessments;
Section 3 behavioural assessments;
examination of relevant evidence and documentation;
examination of the dog where appropriate and reasonably practicable; and
preparation of an independent expert opinion/report where the circumstances require one.

All assessments are undertaken using the same professional methodology and evidential standards that we apply to our fee-paying instructions.

Professional independence

A pro bono assessment is not an assessment undertaken on behalf of an applicant's preferred outcome.

K9 Forensic Assessments remains entirely professionally independent. Our opinion will be based solely upon the evidence available to us and our professional expertise.

An applicant will therefore receive the same honest and independent opinion that we would provide to a privately paying client.

Where our assessment does not support the position advanced by the applicant, we will say so.

Who can apply?

The scheme is intended for individual members of the public who are involved in Dangerous Dogs Act proceedings and who, because of their financial circumstances, would otherwise be unable reasonably to obtain appropriate independent expert assistance.

Applications will be considered individually.

Priority may be given where:

the dog is currently subject to proceedings or has been seized;
an independent expert assessment may materially assist in determining the dog's legal position;
there is no other reasonable means of obtaining appropriate expert evidence; and
the applicant is unable reasonably to meet the cost of a private assessment.

Where appropriate, we may ask an applicant's solicitor to confirm the circumstances of the case and the availability of alternative funding.

What the scheme does not provide

The scheme is not intended to provide:

a second opinion simply because an applicant disagrees with an existing expert opinion;
assistance where the applicant has the reasonable means to fund an assessment privately;
political or campaigning support;
assistance to organisations or campaign groups;
an assessment designed to achieve a predetermined outcome; or
work where we have an actual or potential conflict of interest.

We may also decline an application where there is insufficient evidence to enable a proper assessment to be undertaken.

Limited availability

The number of pro bono assessments undertaken by K9 Forensic Assessments is strictly limited each year.

Submitting an application does not guarantee that an assessment will be accepted.

Each application is considered on its individual circumstances, and K9 Forensic Assessments reserves the right to decline an application.

The availability of the scheme does not affect our professional independence or our ability to accept or decline any instruction.

Applying

If you believe you may qualify for assistance, please complete the application form below.

We will review the information provided and, where necessary, contact you or your legal representative for further information.

Please do not send confidential or legally privileged material through the initial application unless requested.

Application Form

Applicant name:
Contact details:
Solicitor/legal representative (if applicable):
Solicitor contact details:

About the dog

Dog's name:
Breed/type:
Age:
Sex:

About the case

Is the dog currently in police custody?
Yes / No

If yes, where is the dog being held?

Which section of the Dangerous Dogs Act is involved?
Section 1 / Section 3 / Other

Briefly explain what has happened and the current stage of the proceedings.

What expert assessment are you seeking?

Have you previously obtained an expert assessment or opinion concerning the dog?
Yes / No

If yes, please provide brief details.

Financial circumstances

Please explain why you are unable reasonably to meet the cost of obtaining an independent expert assessment privately.

Have you discussed the possibility of expert funding with your solicitor, if legally represented?
Yes / No / Not applicable

Is any alternative source of funding available to you?
Yes / No / Don't know

Declaration

I confirm that the information provided in this application is accurate to the best of my knowledge.

I understand that submitting an application does not guarantee that K9 Forensic Assessments will undertake an assessment.

I understand that any assessment undertaken will be independent and that K9 Forensic Assessments will not alter or withhold its professional opinion because the assessment is being provided on a pro bono basis.

I understand that K9 Forensic Assessments may decline an application where the circumstances do not meet the criteria of the scheme, where there is a conflict of interest, or where an appropriate assessment cannot reasonably be undertaken.

Name:
Date: