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Law 101: Legal Guide for the Forensic Expert

Five Main Parts of Direct Testimony

At trial, the expert's direct testimony is divided into five main parts:

  • Qualifications as an expert to render opinion testimony.
  • The expert's assignment and how it was performed.
  • Findings of fact based on research and testing.
  • The expert's opinions.
  • Reasons that support the conclusions.

Expert opinions may be based on facts found, testing or research conducted, or a series of hypothetical questions developed with the expert by the sponsoring attorney and based on facts, evidence and proof developed at trial.

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Date Created: August 7, 2023