Many courts have lax standards for evidence and judges who abandon their role as gatekeepers, resulting in an abundance of “junk science” evidence presented to jurors. This is especially common in litigation regarding the glyphosate-based Roundup weed killer and talcum baby powder.
Juries and judges should have access to the most complete and accurate evidence during trials and be presented with scientifically and factually accurate information to allow them to make well-informed decisions.
< Return to the Homepage
What Can Be Done
Support implementation of Federal Rule of Evidence 702 in courts, requiring that theories must be based on sound scientific method. The Rule 702 standard is utilized in the federal court system and by a majority of states. Judges must follow applicable laws regarding evidentiary standards if they are in place in their state.
Junk Science Op-Eds
March 8, 2023 Washington Examiner Op-Ed: The 3rd Circuit’s bankruptcy gift to the trial bar
February 10, 2023 Wall Street Journal Letter-to-the-Editor: Lawyers Win Big From J&J Bankruptcy Decision
January 9, 2023 Agri-Pulse Op-Ed: Trial lawyers target agriculture products in ‘Judicial Hellholes’
October 10, 2022 Washington Times Op-Ed: Monsanto’s triumph over junk science
September 28, 2022 Bloomberg Law Op-Ed: When Plaintiffs’ Attorneys Mislead the Public