Legal Definitions - ratio scientiae

Definition: Ratio scientiae (ray-shee-oh sI-en-shee-ee) is a Latin term that refers to the ground of knowledge or the basis for a witness's testimony.

Examples:

• A doctor's medical degree and experience serve as their ratio scientiae when testifying in a medical malpractice case.
• An engineer's education and professional experience are their ratio scientiae when providing expert testimony in a construction dispute.

These examples illustrate how a person's education, training, and experience can serve as the basis for their knowledge and expertise in a particular field. This knowledge and expertise can then be used as evidence in legal proceedings to support their testimony as a witness.