Paul Todd – Independent Drug Expert Witness
Areas of Expertise
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Illicit drug trafficking and supply
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Drug production and manufacturing methods
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Illicit drug laboratories
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International drug markets and trafficking routes
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Drug importation and exportation
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Organised Crime Groups
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Interpretation of text messages, emails and documents
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Drug valuation and quantum reports
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Cannabis cultivation
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Review and quality assurance of drug expert evidence
Professional Experience
Paul is a highly experienced Drug Expert Witness, having started his Law Enforcement career in the Greater Manchester Police force in 1980.
He worked in both uniform and detective roles before moving to the National Crime Squad (NCS), the Serious and Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) and then the National Crime Agency (NCA).
Paul has been providing expert evidence since the 1990s and completed his last 11 years of service in Law Enforcement as a full-time member of the National Crime Agency’s Expert Evidence Team.
Paul has travelled extensively, gaining vast experience and knowledge of the illicit drug trade both at home in the U.K. and abroad. He has a keen interest in drug manufacturing, illicit drug labs, and text, email, and document interpretation.
We are delighted to welcome Paul to Expert Witness Services following his retirement from the National Crime Agency, and we look forward to showcasing his expertise.
Types of Instruction Accepted
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Independent expert reports for criminal proceedings
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Instructions from prosecution and defence teams
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Review of existing prosecution or defence expert evidence
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Drug valuation and quantum reports
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Analysis and interpretation of communications & data
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Drug dealer notes, ledgers and debtor lists
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Case conferences with solicitors, counsel and investigators
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Peer review and quality assurance of expert reports
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Oral expert evidence in court
Legal Aid Agency funded cases are accepted, subject to the nature of the instruction and the required funding authority.
Independence and Professional Standards
Paul’s overriding duty as an expert witness is to assist the court. His opinions are independent, impartial and limited to matters within his expertise, regardless of which party provides the instruction.
Reports are prepared in accordance with the applicable Criminal Procedure Rules, Criminal Practice Directions and disclosure requirements. Conclusions are explained clearly, with any limitations or areas of uncertainty identified.
Expert Witness Services applies a quality-assurance process to completed reports before they are issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Paul accept instructions from both the prosecution and defence?
Yes. Paul accepts appropriate instructions from both prosecution and defence teams. His duty is to provide an independent and impartial opinion within his areas of expertise.
What information is needed for an initial enquiry?
Please provide a short case summary, the alleged offences, the court, relevant deadlines, the questions the expert may need to address and how the work will be funded. Case material can be requested after the initial discussion.
Are Legal Aid Agency funded cases accepted?
Yes, Legal Aid Agency funded cases can be considered. A copy of the relevant funding authority will normally be required before work begins.
Can Paul review another expert’s report?
Yes. Paul can review existing expert evidence within his specialist fields and identify areas requiring clarification, further analysis or challenge.
How long does an expert report take?
Timescales depend on the volume and complexity of the evidence and any court deadline. With a team of experienced experts, we are used to completing reports at short notice if required. An estimated delivery date will be provided after the initial material has been reviewed.
Discuss an Instruction
To discuss whether Ian’s expertise is suitable for your case, send a brief initial enquiry. Please include the alleged offences, the court, relevant deadlines and whether the matter is privately or publicly funded. Do not send confidential case material until suitable transfer arrangements have been agreed.