The amendment made explicit that the proponent must demonstrate it is more likely than not that each Rule 702 requirement is met, and that the expert's opinion must reflect a reliable application of the methodology to the facts.
The committee note identified inconsistent application as the reason for amendment.
Alternative Names:
Rule 702 Amendment, Amended Rule 702
Why it Matters?
The amendment responded to courts treating reliability questions as going to weight rather than admissibility, which the advisory committee identified as a widespread misapplication. Citing the amendment and its committee note directly is now standard in Daubert briefing, since it forecloses the argument that shaky methodology should reach the jury with cross-examination as the remedy. The reliable application language also strengthens analytical gap challenges.
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Frequently asked questions
What did the amendment clarify?
Why was it adopted?
