Why is it important that a thesis be supported with evidence?
A thesis provides the controlling idea for a paper and should be original (that is, not completely obvious), assertive, and arguable. A strong thesis also requires solid evidence to support and develop it because without evidence, a claim is merely an unsubstantiated idea or opinion.
What is expert opinion evidence?
Rule 702 – Testimony By Expert Witnesses It states that an expert’s opinion is admissible if: 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. the testimony is based on sufficient facts or data.
When can an opinion of expert witness be admissible as evidence?
1996) (design engineer’s testimony can be admissible when the expert’s opinions “are based on facts, a reasonable investigation, and traditional technical/mechanical expertise, and he provides a reasonable link between the information and procedures he uses and the conclusions he reaches”). See also Kumho Tire Co. v.
What type of witness is allowed to express an opinion?
Such a witness is called a “skilled” witness, and is permitted to testify to a broad range of opinions as long as they are based on personal knowledge and not reviewing a file.
Can an expert witness rely on hearsay?
While hearsay is generally inadmissible as evidence, a number of exclusions and exceptions allow statements that meet the definition of hearsay to be presented in court. Expert witnesses frequently rely on the work of other experts to inform their opinions.
Are opinions admissible in court?
Usually they’re not permitted to express their opinions or draw conclusions. Under the Federal Rules of Evidence (FRE), a court will permit a person who isn’t testifying as an expert to testify in the form of an opinion if it’s both rationally based on their perception and helps to explain the witness’s testimony.
In what situations are opinions of experts admissible as evidence?
Expert opinion becomes admissible only when the expert is examined as a witness in the court. The report of an expert is not admissible unless the expert gives reasons for forming the opinion and his evidence is tested by cross-examination by the adverse party.
Can an expert witness give opinions?
Unlike a lay witness, an expert witness does not have to have firsthand knowledge of the case in order to form or to testify to an opinion. Instead, the expert witness’s opinion may be based on the witness’s application of reliable principles and methods to the facts or data in the case.
Why is it permissible for an expert witness to offer an opinion?
At present, whenever expertise will assist the trier of fact because the evidence or an issue is so complex or specialised that without such assist- ance the trier of fact will not be able to appreciate it, the expert’s opinion is allowed as it may be said to be “necessary” and “helpful” to allow those who possess such …