Rule 703 addresses disclosure of underlying facts by an expert. When may the expert disclose the underlying facts?

• A. Under Rule 703, the expert may disclose the underlying facts if they are the ones normally relied upon by experts in the field.
• B. The expert must disclose all underlying facts in every case.
• C. The expert may disclose any facts, regardless of relevance.
• D. The expert may never disclose underlying facts.

Answer: (A)

Rule 703 lets an expert share the underlying facts or data only if those facts are the kinds of information that experts in that field normally rely on to form their opinions. This keeps the basis of the opinion clear for the jury without forcing disclosure of every bit of data. The data themselves can be inadmissible as evidence, so long as they serve as a reasonable basis for the opinion and the court allows disclosure (often with limits or redaction if needed). So, disclosure is permitted when it reflects the typical reliance of experts in the field, not as an obligation to reveal all facts or any irrelevant data.