A fundamental factor in proving medical negligence is determining whether the defendant has breached a standard of care owed to the plaintiff. Generally, the standard of care is what a reasonable and prudent person would exercise in a similar situation. The exact method an attorney utilizes in determining his or her selection of a physician, or physician assistant, as an expert witness is unique. Some attorneys may choose only experts within their locale, others may often have a preference for experts familiar with the process and many consult colleagues for recommendations on experts whose services they have utilized. Real know-how involves experience combined with knowledge ultimately translated into being convincing to a jury and able to truly advise the retained counsel. Equally important in retaining an expert is the ability to provide the attorney with a strong commitment to a thorough review and the ability to communicate effectively during deposition and trial testimony.