Title: 1. Understanding the Importance of Reports
Course: IN 2005 Digital Forensics > Section: Module 13: Chapter 13-Cell Phone and Mobile Device Forensics & Report Writing for High-Tech Investigations

Understanding the Importance of Reports

1. The courts’ requirements for expert witness’ reports such as:
  - Expert’s opinion
  - Basis for the opinion
  - Information considered in coming to the opinion
  - Related exhibits
  - Fees paid
2. Deposition banks and how they are used in preparation for a trial.

Limiting the Report to Specifics

1. Before you begin writing, you should identify your audience and the purpose of the report.

Types of Reports

1. Examination plans show you what questions to expect when testifying and are usually prepared by an attorney. See Figure 14-1.
2. Verbal reports are less structured and usually treated as preliminary reports.  Information on a verbal report includes:
  - Tests that have not been concluded
  - Interrogatories
  - Document production
  - Depositions
3. Written reports are formal reports. Usually they are used as an affidavit or declaration.  For that reason, you should pay attention to details and limit what you write.