Joint Medical Examination (JME)
One Specialist. Jointly Instructed by Both Parties.
A Joint Medical Examination (JME) — also referred to as a Joint Independent Medical Examination (JIME) — is a medico-legal assessment where one independent specialist is engaged and instructed together by both the plaintiff and defendant (or their legal representatives).
Rather than each side commissioning their own report, both parties agree on a single specialist, who then assesses the claimant and provides one shared report. This approach eliminates duplicated assessments, conflicting opinions, and unnecessary cost.
Jointly Instructed & Mutually Agreed
Both parties agree on the specialist and the letter of instruction before the assessment proceeds.
One Report, Shared by All
The specialist's report is provided simultaneously to both parties — transparent, consistent, and binding in nature.
Lower Cost & Fewer Delays
Reduces the number of assessments the claimant must attend and lowers the overall costs incurred by both parties.
Why Choose a JME
The Benefits of a Joint Approach
A JME is not always the right choice for every matter — but where it is appropriate, the advantages for both parties are significant.
Reduced Costs for Both Parties
A single specialist fee rather than two separate IME fees — directly lowering the overall costs associated with the claim.
Faster Resolution
Eliminating the need to schedule and attend multiple assessments across both sides accelerates the overall claims timeline.
Less Burden on the Claimant
The claimant attends one assessment instead of potentially two or more, reducing inconvenience and stress throughout the process.
Unimpeachable Impartiality
A jointly-instructed specialist cannot be characterised as biased toward either party, strengthening the credibility of the opinion in proceedings.
No Conflicting Reports
One report means no duelling expert opinions — which can simplify settlement negotiations and reduce time spent in dispute.
Streamlined Court Preparation
Courts and tribunals often look favourably on matters where parties have agreed to a joint expert, as it demonstrates cooperation and proportionality.
Our Specialist Panel
Specialists Who Conduct JME Assessments
VERIFY's panel includes accredited specialists across a broad range of medical disciplines experienced in jointly-instructed assessments.
How It Works
The JME Process, Step by Step
VERIFY manages the entire JME process from initial agreement through to report delivery — keeping both parties informed at every stage.
Joint Agreement
Both parties agree to engage a single specialist and submit a joint letter of instruction to VERIFY.
Specialist Selection
VERIFY presents suitable specialists for consideration. Both parties confirm their agreed choice.
Brief & Scheduling
VERIFY coordinates the brief, manages all scheduling, and handles claimant communication and logistics.
Assessment
The jointly-instructed specialist conducts the examination and prepares their report.
QA & Delivery
VERIFY's QA team reviews the report before it is simultaneously released to both parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About JMEs
Here are the questions we hear most often from legal professionals and insurers considering a JME for their matter.
Does both parties' consent mean the specialist is jointly instructed?
Yes. A JME requires both parties — typically through their legal representatives — to jointly agree on the specialist and submit a shared letter of instruction. The specialist then receives direction from both sides equally and reports to both simultaneously. VERIFY facilitates this entire process.
Can either party request their own IME after receiving the JME report?
Generally, once parties have agreed to a joint expert and received the report, seeking a further independent opinion can be difficult to justify — particularly if the matter is before a court. Any decision to seek a further IME after a JME should be made on legal advice. VERIFY can assist with either pathway.
Who pays for the JME?
This is a matter for the parties to agree upon before engaging VERIFY. Common arrangements include splitting the fee equally, one party bearing the cost, or the cost being apportioned as part of a broader costs agreement. VERIFY will invoice the agreed party or parties as instructed.
What happens if the parties can't agree on a specialist?
VERIFY can present a shortlist of suitable specialists for both parties to consider. If agreement on a specific specialist cannot be reached, we can assist by providing additional options or discussing alternative approaches — including whether separate IMEs may be more appropriate in the circumstances.
Is the JME report binding on both parties?
The JME report is provided to both parties equally and may carry significant weight in proceedings. Whether it is formally binding depends on the jurisdiction, the terms of any agreement between the parties, and any court or tribunal orders in place. Legal advice should be sought on the effect of the report in your specific matter.
Get Started
Ready to Refer Your Next Matter to VERIFY?
Whether you have a specific referral or need guidance on the most suitable service, we are here to make the process simple, efficient, and responsive from the very start.