Since 1993, Supreme Court precedent has asked judges to serve as gatekeepers to their expert witnesses, admitting only reliable scientific testimony. Lacking a strong background in science, however, some judges admit dubious scientific testimony packages by articulate practitioners, while others reject reliable evidence that is unreasonably portrayed as full of holes. Seeking a balance between undue deference and undeserved skepticism, Caudill and LaRue draw on the philosophy of science to help judges, juries, and advocates better understand its goals and limitations.

"On the whole, No Magic Wand is readable and interesting. It is useful in that it provides specific examples from cases to show how various judges have interpreted the Daubert criteria. The book will be more useful to those less familiar with the problems associated with using scientific evidence in the courtroom." - Journal of Law & Politics