In Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals,
the U.S. Supreme Court instructed federal judges to screen expert testimony for
reliability prior to admission. The court intended this gatekeeping to enhance
the reliability of scientific testimony and ensure a consistent level of rigor
between the courtroom and the laboratory. As Daubert approaches its silver anniversary, this panel will consider
some of the next great issues in scientific reliability in both civil and
criminal trials. By highlighting cutting-edge reliability concerns of our time,
the panel will reflect on whether the great promise of Daubert—to deliver reliable science in the courtroom—has been met,
and if not, what changes to the current legal approach to scientific
gatekeeping may be in order.
Business
meeting at program conclusion.