and
( c ) not based on scientific , technical , or other specialized knowledge within the scope of
Rule 702 . -8- Last Updated : July 18 , 2016 Rule 702 . Testimony by Expert Witnesses
A witness who is qualified as an expert by knowledge , skill , experience , training , or education may
testify in the form of an opinion or otherwise if :
( a ) the expert ’ s scientific , technical , or other specialized knowledge will help the trier of fact
to understand the evidence or to determine a fact in issue ; ( b ) the testimony is based on sufficient facts or data ;
( c ) the testimony is the product of reliable principles and methods ; and
( d ) the expert has reliably applied the principles and methods to the facts of the case .
Comment : Formal Certification of Experts Not Permitted . Unless otherwise provided in
the case materials , formal certification of a witness as an expert in a specific field of
expertise is not required nor permitted . Attorneys and witnesses should develop expertise
and lay foundation through appropriate questioning based on the case materials provided .
Judges may entertain any appropriate objections to expert witness qualifications and