Fee benchmarks · 2026
Oncology Expert Witness Fees
What law firms actually pay oncology experts, across the three phases of expert work. Benchmarks compiled from published rate surveys and directory listings; individual experts set their own rates.
What's behind these numbers
Oncology expert witness fees track the specialty's clinical earning power, the depth of qualified experts available, and how often the specialty appears in litigation. Board-certified, actively practicing physicians with academic appointments and clean testimony histories command the top of each range; recently retired physicians or those newer to expert work tend to price near the bottom.
Expect an initial retainer before work begins, and minimum billing blocks for deposition and trial days. Travel time is usually billed at or near the review rate.
Common questions
How much does a oncology expert witness cost?
In 2026, oncology expert witnesses typically charge $600–$900 per hour for record review, $700–$1,000 per hour for deposition testimony, and $7,500–$12,000 per day for trial testimony. Most also require an initial retainer.
What drives oncology expert witness fees up or down?
Board certification, active clinical practice, academic appointments, prior testimony experience, case complexity, and jurisdiction all move rates. Actively practicing, board-certified physicians with published work command the top of the range.
Do oncology experts charge a retainer?
Most require an initial retainer of $1,500 to $5,000, applied against hourly work. Unused retainer amounts are typically refundable, and every Retain expert discloses their retainer terms up front.
Retain a oncology expert with transparent fees
Every Retain expert discloses their full fee schedule before you ever speak. First candidates within 48 hours.
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