Rule 705 concerns disclosing the facts or data underlying an expert's opinion. Which statement is true?

• A. Yes; the expert may state an opinion and reasons without first testifying to the underlying facts.
• B. No; the expert must always testify to the underlying facts first.
• C. Yes, but only if the court orders it.
• D. Yes, but only in civil cases.

Answer: (A)

Rule 705 lets an expert testify to their opinion and explain the reasoning behind it without first testifying to the facts or data they relied on. This streamlines testimony: the expert can lay out the conclusion and the logical basis, and the opposing party can challenge the basis later—through cross-examination or other motions—if needed. The underlying facts or data can be brought out in cross-examination or by agreement later, and the court can require disclosure if appropriate, but it isn’t required to be disclosed before the opinion and its stated reasons are given. This rule applies in both civil and criminal cases, so the statement is true because it reflects the general practice under Rule 705.