The article examines the methodological foundations of assessing initial data in forensic mining engineering examination, taking into account regulatory constraints and the limits of technical interpretation. It is substantiated that the reliability and completeness of initial data are critical factors determining the scientific validity of an expert conclusion. The legal boundaries of forensic expert activity are analyzed, including the prohibition of independent evidence collection and restrictions on legal evaluation of case materials. Approaches to the critical assessment of initial data are developed based on criteria of reliability, completeness, and logical consistency. Particular attention is paid to expert decision-making algorithms in cases involving contradictory, incomplete, or deliberately unreliable data. Practical examples from forensic mining engineering examinations illustrate the application of logical-analytical modeling, alternative scenario analysis, and technical data verification. It is established that critical evaluation of initial data within the limits of expert competence is a necssary condition for ensuring objectivity, reproducibility, and evidentiary value of expert conclusions. Directions for improving methodological and regulatory support of forensic expert activity in this field are proposed.
Puhach et al. (Wed,) studied this question.