Individual independent veterinary expert opinions. Trends of 25 years in forensic veterinary expertise

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of 25 years of forensic veterinary expert opinion-making (2000- 2024) with a special focus on independent veterinary expert opinions. A total of 166 individual, independent expert opinions were studied and discussed. The types of individual opinions were determined. The large role of the civil law in veterinary opinions was indicated from the perspective of both the commissioning entities and topics of opinions. Similarities and differences in relation to earlier works on veterinary expert opinions were demonstrated. A growing trend in the number of opinions issued and their diversity was confirmed. Individual, independent expert opinion-making was proven to be a vital part of forensic activities and veterinary services for the public.