So what is an abuse of discretion? The definition bears repeating:
A trial court abuses its discretion only if it “act[s] arbitrarily without the employment of conscientious judgment, exceed[s] the bounds of reason and ignore[s] recognized principles of law … or if no reasonable person would take the position adopted by the court.”
In a medical malpractice case, plaintiff wanted to cross-examine the defense expert on his personal practices. The appellate court ruled that it was error for the trial court to preclude that cross-examination. The opinion did not state it was an abuse of discretion, but that’s the upshot. Take a look at Schmitz v. Binette, No. 1-05-2710 (10/13/06).