What does Rule 702 govern in the federal court system?

Rule 702 governs the admissibility of expert testimony related to scientific evidence in the federal court system. This rule is crucial because it establishes the criteria for whether an expert’s testimony can be considered reliable and relevant in court. The rule requires that an expert's knowledge be based on sufficient facts or data, that the testimony be the product of reliable principles and methods, and that the expert has applied those methods reliably to the case at hand.

This standard is essential for ensuring that the expert testimonies presented in court are grounded in sound scientific principles and methodologies, which ultimately helps the court make informed decisions based on credible and trustworthy evidence. The emphasis on reliability and relevance allows for the exclusion of testimony that may be speculative or lacking a proper scientific foundation, thereby maintaining the integrity of the judicial process.