Expert Testimony

Expert Testimony for Fine Art & Antique Valuation

Legal disputes involving fine art, antiques, or high-value collectibles often require precise, credible, and defensible evaluations. Whether for litigation, estate disputes, marital dissolution, insurance claims, or fiduciary matters, having a qualified expert provide testimony can be the difference between a favorable outcome and an unresolved conflict.

Since 1975, Robert Levy of ARTXPRT – The Beverly Hills Appraisal Company has provided expert testimony services to attorneys, trustees, courts, and private clients across Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Barbara, Orange County, Palm Springs, and San Diego. He is recognized for his professionalism, authority, and comprehensive knowledge of the art and antiques market.

Why Expert Testimony Matters

In complex legal cases, understanding the authenticity, provenance, and value of artwork and antiques is critical. Judges, mediators, and opposing counsel often rely on qualified expert testimony to verify claims, confirm appraisals, or resolve disputes.

ARTXPRT’s experts provide:

Objective, impartial analysis of artworks and antiques
Defensible valuations based on market data and industry standards
Clear, well-documented explanations suitable for court presentation
Support for estate, insurance, or property litigation
Guidance for attorneys in preparation and strategy

Having an expert witness with decades of experience ensures credibility and reduces the likelihood of contested valuations.

What Is an Expert Testimony Service?

An expert testimony service involves a certified appraiser providing professional opinions regarding the value, authenticity, or condition of fine art, antiques, or collectibles in a legal context.

Expert testimony can take several forms:

Written reports and affidavits supporting valuation claims
Depositions for pre-trial documentation and clarification
Courtroom testimony as a qualified witness
Consultation with attorneys to interpret valuation results or market trends

Our testimony is grounded in USPAP-compliant appraisal methodology and backed by verifiable market research, ensuring reliability and acceptance in legal proceedings.

Common Scenarios for Expert Testimony

Estate Disputes: Determining fair market value for contested inheritances or trust settlements
Marital Dissolution: Establishing the value of high-value assets for equitable division
Insurance Claims: Supporting disputes over damage, loss, or underinsurance
Authenticity Challenges: Verifying the provenance or authenticity of artworks or antiques
Appraisal Disputes: Clarifying conflicting valuations in court or mediation

Whether the matter is complex litigation or a straightforward dispute, ARTXPRT provides the expertise needed to achieve clarity and resolution.

The ARTXPRT Expert Testimony Process

Case Consultation
We begin by reviewing the case, understanding the legal requirements, and defining the scope of engagement.
Property Examination
Our certified appraisers inspect the items in question, documenting condition, provenance, authenticity, and prior valuations.
Research & Market Analysis
Comparative market data, auction results, and historical trends are analyzed to provide accurate, defensible opinions.
Report Preparation
A detailed, USPAP-compliant expert report is prepared, including item descriptions, photographs, valuation rationale, and supporting documentation.
Deposition or Court Appearance
We provide clear, concise, and professional testimony in depositions, mediation, or trial, communicating complex information in a way that is understandable and authoritative.

Who Can Benefit from Expert Testimony

Attorneys and law firms handling art, estate, or insurance litigation
Executors and trustees managing contested estates
Collectors and investors involved in disputes over value or authenticity
Insurance professionals seeking verification for claims or disputes
Galleries and museums needing expert opinions for acquisitions or restitution claims

ARTXPRT’s experts offer clarity, precision, and credibility to all parties involved.

Why Choose ARTXPRT for Expert Testimony

Decades of Proven Expertise
Since 1975, Robert Levy has provided authoritative testimony on thousands of artworks and antiques across Southern California.

Independence and Objectivity
We do not buy, sell, or broker art, ensuring that our opinions are unbiased and professionally credible.

Court-Ready Reports
Our USPAP-compliant expert reports are accepted by courts, mediators, and insurance professionals.

Comprehensive Market Knowledge
Our team continuously monitors art and antique markets, enabling informed, data-driven testimony.

Confidential and Professional
All engagements are handled discreetly, protecting client privacy while supporting legal needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of cases require expert testimony?
Cases involving estate disputes, marital dissolution, insurance claims, authenticity verification, and appraisal disagreements often benefit from expert testimony.

Can ARTXPRT testify in court outside California?
Yes. We provide expert testimony nationally and can travel to depositions or court proceedings as required.

How is expert testimony different from a regular appraisal?
While a standard appraisal provides a valuation, expert testimony supports legal proceedings, explaining methodology, market data, and conclusions in a legally recognized format.

How do you prepare for testimony?
We review the case thoroughly, analyze the items, prepare a USPAP-compliant report, and coordinate with legal counsel to ensure clarity and accuracy.

Is your testimony recognized by insurance companies and courts?
Yes. Our decades of experience and compliance with USPAP standards make our testimony widely accepted by courts, mediators, and insurers.

Schedule an Expert Testimony Consultation

Disputes over the value or authenticity of fine art and antiques require clarity, credibility, and professional insight.

Robert Levy of ARTXPRT – The Beverly Hills Appraisal Company has been Southern California’s trusted authority for expert testimony since 1975.