Historically, subject matter specialists with statewide
responsibilities employed by University
of Tennessee Extension, formerly known
as the UT Agricultural Extension Service, have not been allowed to consult with
clientele in Tennessee.
In-state consulting by Extension specialists is considered a direct conflict of
interest. A specialist can, however, when served a subpoena, testify as an
expert witness within the state. Testifying in court or during deposition is
often time-consuming, challenging and uncomfortable, especially if the
specialist knows both the defendant and plaintiff personally. Agronomic
consultants are licensed in Tennessee,
according to category, by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA). Their
licenses must be renewed and licensing fees paid to TDA each year. When consulting outside Tennessee, an Extension specialist
must be on annual leave from the university and is required to report
consulting activity. This presentation is intended to help answer the question:
“What are my options when I am asked to consult?”