What Is a Vocational Expert?

A vocational expert is a trained professional who evaluates how a person’s education, work history, skills, and medical or psychological limitations impact their ability to work. Vocational experts provide objective opinions based on labor market data, transferable skills analysis, and vocational assessment principles. They may be called upon in legal cases involving personal injury, disability claims, workers’ compensation, family law, veteran’s benefits, or employment disputes to determine whether an individual can return to work, what jobs may be suitable, and how earning capacity may be affected. Their expertise helps attorneys, courts, and decision-makers understand the real-world impact an injury or condition can have on employment outcomes.

Vocational experts play a critical role by connecting the individual’s functional abilities to real-world job demands. Beyond litigation support, vocational experts also assist individuals by identifying career options, evaluating job accommodations, and providing guidance toward meaningful employment. Through detailed analysis and professional experience, a vocational expert bridges the gap between medical findings and the labor market, translating complex information into clear, understandable conclusions. Whether supporting legal professionals or helping individuals navigate career changes, the goal of a vocational expert is to provide accurate, research-based insight that supports informed decisions about work and vocational potential.