Prerequisite: None

Exam Type: In Class

This course will study the basic rules and principles of American evidence law, focusing on the Federal Rules of Evidence and cases interpreting them. Topics to be covered will include: relevance, irrelevance, and unfair prejudice; the hearsay rule and its exemptions and exceptions; character and propensity evidence; forbidden inferences; impeachment and rehabilitation; lay and expert opinions; privileges; authentication; the best evidence rule; and some of the constitutional questions under the Confrontation Clause and Due Process Clause that arise in connection with evidence. We will also look at related practical aspects of trial, such as referencing evidence in opening statements, conducting direct, cross and re-direct examinations, and making and responding to objections.