Me. R. Evid. 703

As amended through February 27, 2023
Rule 703 - Basis of an Expert's Opinion Testimony

An expert may base an opinion on facts or data in the case that the expert has been made aware of or has personally observed. If experts in the particular field would reasonably rely on those kinds of facts or data in forming an opinion on the subject, the facts or data need not be admissible for the opinion to be admitted.

Me. R. Evid. 703

Adopted effective 1/1/2015.

Maine Restyling Note [November 2014]

Maine Rule of Evidence 703 is similar to its federal counterpart. Maine did not adopt the final subparagraph of Federal Rule 703, an omission that is carried through in the restyled Rule.

Federal Restyling Committee Note

The language of Rule 703 has been amended as part of the general restyling of the Evidence Rules to make them more easily understood and to make style and terminology consistent throughout the rules. These changes are intended to be stylistic only. There is no intent to change any result in any ruling on admissibility.

The Committee deleted all reference to an "inference" on the grounds that the deletion made the Rule flow better and easier to read, and because any "inference" is covered by the broader term "opinion." Courts have not made substantive decisions on the basis of any distinction between an opinion and an inference. No change in current practice is intended.

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