Expert Witness & Litigation Support Appraisal Services

At Dawson Appraisal Services, we offer a full range of real estate appraisal services, backed by extensive experience in litigation support and expert witness testimony. Our clients include government agencies, tax authorities, financial institutions, attorneys, accountants, and private individuals. In many cases, our independent, supportable analyses have helped clients resolve disputes without ever setting foot in court.

Experience That Holds Up in Court

When it comes to expert witness appraisals, preparation and credibility make all the difference. Over the years, I’ve served as an expert witness in numerous valuation disputes, particularly in divorce and estate cases, where accurate property values directly impact fairness and settlement outcomes.

Not every case goes to trial—but several of my recent divorce appraisal assignments did. In each instance, preparation and documentation proved critical. Time and again, opposing appraisers came to court unprepared, unable to defend their conclusions, or in violation of USPAP standards. Many relied on mortgage lending forms or boilerplate templates that lacked the research, analysis, and detail required to withstand scrutiny. These shortcuts collapse under cross-examination.

The Value of a Defensible Appraisal

A quality appraisal should be ready for court, even if it never gets there. It’s not just about producing a number—it’s about providing a defensible valuation that can stand up to challenges. Too often, appraisers are chosen simply because they’re the cheapest option. But in this business, you get what you pay for. A cut-rate report can easily cost far more later in disputes, delays, or unfavorable outcomes.

A professional appraisal is a safeguard—a foundation for fair settlements and sound decisions. Whether your situation involves divorce, partnership dissolution, estate valuation, or property dispute, it’s always better to be prepared and supported by credible expertise than to be caught off guard when the stakes are high.

Some examples of issues we have experience with include:

  • Valuation of "stigmatized" property
  • Valuation as of a date in the past
  • Valuation for condemnation and eminent domain cases
  • Effect on value of properties with history of flood
  • Estate settlement
  • Effect on value caused by insect infestation
  • Valuation for divorce, partnership, taxation issues etc.
With our experience and proven track record we are ready to take on any type of appraisal assignment and our appraisal values stand up under the most severe scrutiny.