Experts without an actual degree are often challenged and their preclusion is sought via motion in limine. This article will explore current cases and trends regarding preclusion of experts who do not possess a formal degree.
We first look to Rule 702 of the Federal Rules of Evidence for clarity on the issue of admissibility of expert opinion evidence which provides the following:
[i]f scientific, technical, or other specialized knowledge will assist the trier of fact to understand the evidence or to determine a fact in issue, a witness qualified as an expert by knowledge, skill, experience, training, or education, may testify thereto in the form of an opinion or otherwise, if (1) the testimony is based upon sufficient facts or data, (2) the testimony is the product of reliable principles and methods, and (3) the witness has applied the principles and methods reliably to the facts of the case.
