Professional
Formal
IVT
Daubert hearing
Pronunciation: DOW-bərt
Pretrial proceeding where judge evaluates admissibility of expert scientific testimony.
Full Definition
A pretrial hearing conducted pursuant to Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals (1993) where the court determines whether proposed expert testimony meets scientific reliability standards. The judge acts as gatekeeper, evaluating whether the expert's methods and conclusions are based on scientifically valid reasoning and methodology. In forensic psychology, Daubert hearings often address the admissibility of risk assessments, psychological testing, and opinion testimony about mental state issues.
Usage
Usage note: Replaced Frye standard in federal courts and many state jurisdictions.
In Context
- "The court scheduled a Daubert hearing to examine the reliability of the risk assessment methodology." — Pretrial order
- "Defense counsel filed a motion challenging expert testimony, requesting a Daubert hearing." — Legal motion
Also known as
admissibility hearing
Daubert motion
Contrasted with
Frye hearing
Don't confuse with
Frye standard
competency hearing