Evidence Flashcards
When can an evidentiary ruling be reversed even if the opposing party didn’t object?
Plain error - an error that effects the substantial right of the party. (effecting the verdict)
Conditional relevance rule
whether there is enough evidence to determine if the necessary fact existed.
When should a limiting instruction be given by the judge?
Evidence admissible for one party/purpose but inadmissible for another party or purpose.
Rule of completeness
When a party introduces part of a writing/recording, the adverse party may introduce any other part of the writing for context/fairness.
When is the rule of completeness not applicable?
When it includes inadmissible evidence such as hearsay.
What are three preliminary questions?
CAP
Competency
Admissibility
Privilege
What is the effect of judicial notice on the jury?
Civil - must accept as fact
Criminal jury - MAY accept it
Who has the burden of production
Civil - plaint.
Crim - prosecution
When is preponderance of the evidence used in criminal trials?
Motion to surpress
Validity of confession
What is the burden to prove insanity?
Clear and convincing evidenc
When can the court exclude relevant evidence?
When the probative value is substantially outweighed by:
1) prejudice
2) confussion of the issue
3) misleading the jury
4) delay/cumulative
what are the there forms of character evidence
Reputation
Opinion
Specific Acts
What types of civil cases
Defamation
Child Custody
Negligent entrustment
Negligent hiring
When the def. puts on character evidence what can the prosecution do?
Cross- specific acts
direct - reputation and opinion
How does the court treat habit evidence?
It is admissible substantively: both opinon and specific acts
How are SUBSEQUENT remedial measurers treated?
Inadmissible to prove:
Negligence, culpable conduct, failure to ward
Admissible: ownership/control, impeach, feasibility
Admissibility of offers/settlements negotiations?
Inadmissible: validity/amount, liability, impeachment
Admissible:
bias/prejudice, undue delay
note: need a dispute
Admissibility of medical bills/expenses?
Inadmissible but admissions are admissible.
note: don’t need a dispute
Admissibility of Plea negotiations
Inadmissible: any statement made to PROSECUTORS during plea negotiations
note: doesn’t apply to police
Do plea negotiation protections apply to admissions to police officers?
No - only prosecutors
Admissibility of Liability Insurance
Inadmissible: to prove negligence or fault
Admissible: ownership/control, bias/prejudice