Ogden Table Expert Witness Reports

What This Covers

• Selection of the correct Ogden Table for age, sex, and retirement assumptions
• Multiplier calculation with employment contingency reduction factors
• Clear statement of multiplicand and residual earning capacity assumptions
• Discount rate application and sensitivity where instructed
• Comparison with opposing expert Ogden methodology
• Joint statements narrowing Ogden Table disagreements

When You Need This

• Directions require a dedicated Ogden Table analysis
• Opposing experts disagree on table selection or reduction factors
• High-value claims where multiplier choices dominate quantum
• Instructing solicitors need a methodologically transparent report
• SJE instruction on future loss quantification

Our Approach

• Disclose every actuarial choice in plain terms
• Anchor opinions to the current Government Actuary’s Department tables
• Explain when Smith v Manchester is preferred over Ogden multipliers
• Prepare for Part 35 questions and oral evidence on methodology
• Keep the arithmetic testable and the narrative proportionate

Loss of Earnings — Common Questions

Q.01

What are the Ogden Tables in personal injury claims?

The Ogden Tables (Government Actuary's Department actuarial tables) are the standard tool for calculating the present value of future loss of earnings in UK personal injury and clinical negligence proceedings. They provide multipliers — actuarially calculated figures that, when applied to an annual multiplicand (the net annual loss), produce a lump sum representing the present value of future loss over the claimant's working life.

Q.02

What is the multiplier and multiplicand in a loss of earnings claim?

In a future loss of earnings claim, the multiplicand is the annual net loss of earnings — the claimant's annual earnings but for the injury, less actual post-injury earnings. The multiplier is an actuarially calculated figure from the Ogden Tables that reflects the period of loss and the discount rate. Future loss is calculated by multiplying the multiplicand by the multiplier.

Q.03

What is a Smith v Manchester award?

A Smith v Manchester award is a lump sum award for handicap on the open labour market — used where a claimant has returned to work but their injury places them at a disadvantage in the job market. It is used as an alternative to full Ogden Table future loss calculation where the claimant is working but at a competitive disadvantage. It is typically expressed as a multiplier of annual earnings (commonly between 0.5 and 2 years' net earnings), assessed by the court or agreed in settlement.

Q.04

What is the Blamire approach to pension loss?

The Blamire approach to pension loss (from Blamire v South Cumbria Health Authority) is used where it is not possible to calculate pension loss with precision — typically for defined contribution schemes or where the claimant's pension position is uncertain. The court awards a lump sum representing a broad assessment of pension loss. An expert forensic accountant can model the range of pension loss and advise on an appropriate Blamire award figure.

Q.05

What must a CPR Part 35 loss of earnings expert report contain?

Under CPR Part 35 and Practice Direction 35, a loss of earnings expert report must include: the expert's qualifications, a summary of instructions received, the facts and materials relied upon, the methodology applied (including the Ogden Table edition, multiplier, multiplicand, and discount rate where applicable), the expert's opinion and reasoning, a summary of conclusions, and a statement of truth confirming the expert's duty to the court.