The Conceptual Challenge of Expert Evidence

Abstract:     
The relationship between expert knowledge and the form of trials is examined. For the most part, trials are educational events in which the fact finder is expected to comprehend, process, and deliberate on the evidence, and as a result to reach rational conclusions. This process reflects the fundamental importance of factual accuracy at trial, without which rights and obligations are essentially meaningless. Expert evidence often involves a deferential rather than an educational mode of proceeding and to that extent can be in opposition to the normal aspirations of trials. How and why this developed are discussed, as are its consequences. The alternative is advanced that all evidence should be presented in an educational mode if the aspirations of trials are to be realized. If evidence cannot be presented in such a fashion, then the matter to which the evidence is pertinent plausibly cannot be litigated consistent with the normal aspirations of trials.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 28

Keywords: evidence, expert testimony, scientific evidence, epistemology, trials, education, deference

JEL Classification: K4

Accepted Paper Series