Rules of Evidence

Learn about the rules of evidence, what makes evidence relevant or not, and how judges decide whether to admit or exclude relevant evidence.

In a typical criminal trial, after they have selected the jury, the prosecution and defense have the opportunity to give an opening statement.

Read about the purpose and limitations of a closing statement in a criminal trial.

Witnesses facing questioning by a hostile prosecutor should stay calm and focus only on the questions.

Chain of custody typically refers to the foundation the prosecution needs to establish for certain types of exhibits to be admitted into evidence.

Defendants can offer evidence of their good character—but not without risk.

When any witness, including a defendant, testifies, his or her credibility is at issue. The fact-finder (either judge or jury) must decide whether and how much to believe the witness.

“Rape shield” laws are designed to protect the victims of sex crimes during criminal proceedings.

When they're depicted on television, prosecutors and other lawyers are often aggressive and seem to make statements to, rather than ask questions of, witnesses. Is this how it goes in a real courtroom?

“Direct” examination refers to a lawyer’s questions of his or her own witness.

Psychotherapy is, for the most part, confidential. Patients of mental health providers like psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers reasonably expect that their in-therapy disclosures will remain private.