CALIFORNIA EVIDENCE: CIVIL AND CRIMINAL
...Opinion & Scientific Evidence
......Expert Testimony: Qualifications
.........Qualifications of Expert
............Qualifications: Experience
 13 Cards On This Topic:
  • Witness is qualified as expert if s/he has special knowledge, skill, experience, training or education to be considered an expert on the subject of the testimony.
  • Based on prof. experience, E could testify to general behavioral traits of child abuse Vs re delayed reporting; testimony probative as it rehab'd C's credibility after cross.
  • Witness qualified as an expert on tool mark identification based on experience, rather than training.
  • Although expert lacked qualifications of comparable experts, he had relevant on-the-job training and experience which permitted him to testify as an expert.
  • Criminalist's qualifications for making a shot sequence determination met EC §720(a) and EC §801(b) foundational requirements; not necessary that E's employment be specifically focused on shot sequence.
  • DA properly established that police detective was "familiar with the use of firearms," enabling him to offer opinion as to absence of shell casings pointing to use of revolver, not semiautomatic.
  • No abuse of discretion in allowing a former police officer to testify as an expert in field sobriety where he had 25 years of experience as an officer, including certification in DUI matters.
  • Based on his training and experience, correctional officer could properly give expert testimony regarding D's smuggling of methamphetamine into prison.
  • Investigator found competent to express opinion based on own experience as to whether equipment found in D's residence was associated with practice of medicine.
  • Dog trainer who had no academic training qualified as expert based upon occupational experience.
  • Qualification for testimony re fingerprint comparison may be based solely upon training and experience, with no particular degree required.
  • Experience in comparison of physical objects qualifies witness to testify; opinion of "similarity" of tire tracks sufficiently probative to be admitted.
  • Salesman for product may qualify as witness on value of product; need not be employed full-time as appraiser or have special training in appraisal.


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