Is it forbidden for a layperson to emulate a scholar who adheres to a sound Shar'i methodology in deriving rulings, even if personal trust in him is not available?

Lack of trust in scholars and their methodology for deriving Shariah rulings stems from ignorance of Islamic knowledge, the principles of Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and the reasons for differences of opinion. The reasons for scholarly differences and their wisdom have been explained in previous fatwas. Since following a scholar is based on trust, how can one benefit from knowledge if they do not trust the scholars or their methodology?