John Severs Obituary – IEW and afPE Member

John's book on Primary Risk Assessment in PE is a massive legacy for the profession and the Institute of Expert Witnesses. I continue to use and quote from it, every other day. I commend it to Solicitors weekly. John produced many other key written articles and notable contributions.

Though I knew him well when I was the General Secretary of BAALPE, it was particularly his work as an expert witness where I remember him. He was greatly respected and revered by members, Barristers and Solicitors. In the areas of attention to detail, he was unmatched and his reports will have contributed greatly to fair play and justice throughout the UK. In relation to our own many CPD Seminars he would contribute wisely in advance and then in minute detail at the actual rewarding days.

I have witnessed his reports and took over one recently, it was outstanding and so immensely thorough; it must have taken him hours to be so detailed in every response to the key issues. Despite years of experience, I struggled to match the quality and depth of knowledge that were major features. This was John, always raising the bar higher.

The Award from afPE a few years ago thrilled him, and I had found it a privilege to write a support reference to the Association at the time. We thank life for allowing such a respected professional to pass this way and be such an example to us all. Like many other personal career major influences, John was right up there with the best. I value the fact that I met him, was inspired by him and worked with and for him. John's journey was full of highs and he inspired many peers, aspirant teachers and practitioners in a distinguished career and extended time contributing to justice in the Law Courts of England, Scotland, England and Wales

Geoff Edmondson OBE

General Secretary, Institute of Expert Witnesses( IEW)

Back to News