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The Daubert Test: A Key Standard for Admissibility of Expert Testimony
Definition & Meaning
The Daubert test is a legal standard used by federal courts to assess whether expert testimony is admissible in court. This standard originates from the Supreme Court case Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc., decided in 1995. The test focuses on two main criteria:
Whether the reasoning or methodology behind the expert's testimony is scientifically valid.
Whether this reasoning or methodology can be appropriately applied to the specific facts of the case.
Essentially, the Daubert test ensures that expert testimony is both reliable and relevant, with the court acting as a gatekeeper in this process.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The Daubert test is primarily used in federal civil and criminal cases where expert testimony is presented. It is particularly relevant in cases involving scientific evidence, technical expertise, or specialized knowledge. Courts apply the Daubert standard to determine if the testimony meets the necessary criteria for admissibility, ensuring that only credible and pertinent information influences the case outcome.
Users may find legal forms related to expert testimony and motions to exclude or admit such testimony through resources like US Legal Forms, which provide templates drafted by experienced attorneys.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: In a personal injury case, a plaintiff may present a medical expert to testify about the long-term effects of a specific injury. The court will apply the Daubert test to ensure that the expert's methods for evaluating the injury are scientifically sound.
Example 2: In a product liability case, an engineer may be called to testify about a product's design flaws. The court will assess whether the engineer's analysis meets the Daubert criteria for scientific validity and relevance. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
The primary legal reference for the Daubert test is the Supreme Court case Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 516 U.S. 869 (1995). This case established the framework for evaluating expert testimony under Federal Rule of Evidence 702.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Frye Standard
A test for admissibility based on whether the expert's methods are generally accepted in the scientific community.
The Frye standard focuses on general acceptance, while the Daubert test emphasizes scientific validity and applicability.
Expert Witness
A person with specialized knowledge or expertise who may provide testimony in court.
The Daubert test evaluates the admissibility of the expert's testimony, while the term "expert witness" refers to the individual themselves.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are involved in a legal case where expert testimony is relevant, it's crucial to understand the Daubert test and how it may affect your case. Consider the following steps:
Consult with a legal professional to evaluate the admissibility of expert testimony in your situation.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates related to motions for admitting or excluding expert testimony.
Gather supporting evidence to establish the reliability and relevance of any expert testimony you plan to present.
Find the legal form that fits your case
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.
Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 1995
Legal Areas
Civil and criminal cases
Burden of Proof
Proponent must establish admissibility by a preponderance of proof
Key takeaways
Frequently asked questions
The Daubert test is a legal standard used to determine if expert testimony is admissible in court based on its scientific validity and relevance.
The proponent of the expert testimony has the burden to establish its admissibility by a preponderance of proof.
The Daubert test focuses on scientific validity and application to the case facts, while the Frye standard emphasizes general acceptance within the scientific community.