Avoiding the Net Opinion Trap: Admitting and Defending Expert Testimony Under New Jersey Evidence Rules

Expert testimony can make or break a case-but only if it survives admissibility challenges. This program provides trial attorneys with a practical, litigation-focused guide to navigating expert testimony under New Jersey Evidence Rules 702 and 703, with particular emphasis on the "net opinion" doctrine.

Through a review of foundational requirements and key case law, this course explains when expert testimony is admissible, how courts evaluate reliability and relevance, and why unsupported conclusions are routinely excluded. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of what courts require when experts offer opinions, including the critical obligation to articulate the "why and wherefore" behind their conclusions.

Using real-world examples from New Jersey decisions, this program highlights common pitfalls that lead to exclusion and offers strategies to properly prepare, challenge, and defend expert opinions. Whether you are offering expert testimony or seeking to bar it, this course equips you with the tools to strengthen your evidentiary arguments and avoid costly mistakes.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify the foundational requirements for admissibility of expert testimony under New Jersey Evidence Rules 702 and 703
2. Define and recognize inadmissible "net opinions" and explain why courts exclude them 
3. Apply key New Jersey case law to evaluate and challenge expert testimony 
4. Develop and defend expert opinions that are properly supported and admissible at trial