Meet Michael Primeau, CFVT
Michael Primeau, CFVE, CFVT, MCE
Lead Expert Witness & Partner
Michael Primeau is a nationally recognized expert witness and has worked in digital forensics since 2012, specializing in multimedia forensic analysis. He regularly provides expert consulting to attorneys, insurance companies, and special investigation units (SIUs) on cases in which digital multimedia recordings are critical to the legal case, helping legal teams across the country uncover hidden facts, authenticate crucial evidence, and build objective, science-based arguments.
Michael’s areas of practice in multimedia forensic analysis include:
He is highly sought after not just for his technical precision, but for his ability to translate complex digital forensics into clear, plain-English testimony that resonates with judges and juries. In addition to actively assisting in more than 4,000 cases over his career, Michael also consults with media outlets, including The Travel Channel’s popular TV Series Expedition Unknown and A&E’s The Proof is Out There.
A Strong Foundation in Forensic Analysis
Michael had a yearning from a young age to understand the intricacies of electronics, which he explored by disassembling and dissecting digital toys and computer systems. This passion was inspired and fueled by his father, Edward Primeau, the founding partner of Primeau Forensics. Ed began practicing audio and video forensics in 1984, seven years before Michael’s birth.
Science-Based Education and Certifications
While pursuing his undergraduate degree at Lawrence Technological University, he began training with LEVA and completed levels 1 through 4. He also obtained training from the University of Denver Center for Media Forensics in audio and image forensic analysis.
Michael also holds certifications in forensic video analysis from:
- LEVA as a Certified Forensic Video Technician (CFVT)
- IAI as a Certified Forensic Video Examiner (CFVE)
He also has certifications in forensic tools such as Amped and Magnet Forensics, which strengthen the defensibility of his testimony by demonstrating objectivity and expertise.
Deeply Rooted in Courtroom Experience
Michael enjoys learning new things and overcoming challenges, traits necessary to maintain expertise in forensic science, particularly in complex areas like digital forensic analysis. He began testifying at a young age, being admitted as an expert for the first time at age 21. Michael has testified in 31 cases over the course of his career and given deposition testimony 21 times in criminal, civil, family, and federal courts.
One of the more noteworthy cases he has given expert testimony in was the case State of New Mexico v. Gutierrez, related to the discharge of a firearm, resulting in the death of Halyna Hutchins, for which Alec Baldwin faced charges in 2021 on the film set of “Rust.”
For a complete listing of cases Michael has testified as an expert in, as well as given deposition testimony for the past 4 years, see Expert Witness Testimony.
Adaptability and Success Through Challenge
Michael is also deeply passionate about understanding and applying scientific methodology. He has been an active member of SWGDE, the Scientific Working Group on Digital Evidence, since 2020, regularly contributing to the development of standards and best practices in digital forensics.
Michael has served as the video committee chair for the last four years.
He has also been challenged under the Daubert Standard once in his career. This moment was pivotal, as he overcame a challenge to the admissibility of scientific methodology. Michael prepared for and responded to the challenge, which was ultimately withdrawn, thereby overcoming what was once thought to be a career-ending move.
Michael has never been barred as an expert witness.
Life Outside of Labs and Courtrooms
In his personal time, he enjoys spending time with his fiancée, Chelsea, as well as his pitbulls Frankie and Penny. He is also passionate about physical health and enjoys weightlifting as a hobby.
Training and Certifications
