Opinion ID: 2628343
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 7

Heading: The qualification requirement of NRS 50.275

Text: As noted, before a person may testify as an expert under NRS 50.275, the district court must first determine whether he or she is qualified in an area of scientific, technical, or other specialized knowledge. [10] In determining whether a person is properly qualified, a district court should consider the following factors: (1) formal schooling and academic degrees, [11] (2) licensure, [12] (3) employment experience, [13] and (4) practical experience and specialized training. [14] We note that these factors are not exhaustive, may be accorded varying weights, and may not be equally applicable in every case. We conclude that the district court did not abuse its discretion when it determined that Dr. Bowles qualified as an expert under NRS 50.275 because substantial evidence supports its findings. The formal schooling and academic degrees factor is supported because Dr. Bowles holds a bachelors of science degree in mechanical engineering and a doctorate of medicine. The licensure factor is supported because Dr. Bowles is licensed to practice medicine in Texas and Kansas. Dr. Bowles' approximately ten years of surgical experience and his residency in general surgery support the employment and specialized training factors. Thus, we next examine whether Dr. Bowles' biomechanical testimony satisfied the assistance requirement of NRS 50.275.