Rules of Evidence
Trials are about getting to the truth. But there are precise rules lawyers must follow in trying to get there. Learn what kind of evidence is—and isn’t—admissible in criminal trials.
Evidence Basics
Evidence Basics
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Relevant Evidence in Criminal Trials
Relevance is the basic building block of evidence rules—evidence must be relevant to be admissible. For evidence to be relevant, there must be some logical connection between it and the fact it’s offered to prove or disprove.
Rules for Lawyers and Witnesses
Rules for Lawyers and Witnesses
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Opening Statements: What the Prosecution and Defense Can and Can’t Say
In a typical criminal trial, after they have selected the jury, the prosecution and defense have the opportunity to give an opening statement.
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Closing Argument in Criminal Trials
Read about the purpose and limitations of a closing statement in a criminal trial.
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Witnesses facing questioning by a hostile prosecutor should stay calm and focus only on the questions.
Types of Evidence
Types of Evidence
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What Is a Chain of Custody for Evidence?
Chain of custody typically refers to the foundation the prosecution needs to establish for certain types of exhibits to be admitted into evidence.
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Character Evidence and Character Witnesses
Defendants can offer evidence of their good character—but not without risk.
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Evidence of Prior Convictions: Admissible Against Defendants Who Testify?
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.
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Rape Shield Laws: Protecting Sex-Crime Victims
“Rape shield” laws are designed to protect the victims of sex crimes during criminal proceedings.
Questions About Evidence Rules
Questions About Evidence Rules
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How Do Prosecutors Question Witnesses?
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?
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What are "re-direct" and "re-cross" examination?
“Direct” examination refers to a lawyer’s questions of his or her own witness.
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If I Tell My Psychologist About a Crime I Committed, Can I Get in Trouble?
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.