What does the Daubert ruling determine regarding forensic evidence?

The Daubert ruling is significant in the legal field as it establishes guidelines for the admissibility of expert witnesses and scientific evidence in court. This ruling emphasizes the need for a rigorous standard when evaluating the reliability and relevance of scientific testimony. Under this framework, judges are tasked with ensuring that any expert evidence presented is not only based on scientific knowledge but also follows proper principles and methodology. This includes considerations such as whether the theory or technique has been tested, subjected to peer review, and has a known error rate, among other factors.

The Daubert standard serves to protect the court from unreliable evidence that could mislead a jury, thus ensuring that expert testimony contributes meaningfully to the legal process. By establishing such criteria, the ruling plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of forensic science within the judicial system.