Employees (physicians and non-physicians) are paid their regular rate of pay when asked to a) meet with legal counsel; b) give a deposition; c) appear in court. All appearences must be pre-approved by Risk Management. The provision of EXPERT OPINIONS (written or verbal) are not permitted because it is not in their "Job Description." This prohibition was initiated by our professional liability insurance provider who issued a warning several years ago that "expert opinions" are not covered as part of the policy. So, any medical/clinical employee who acts as an expert (except in criminal proceedings) does so at his/her own peril. Experts have been known to be sued over their representations, and none of our employees are willing to take that risk.