Evidence

This course introduces you to the law that controls admission of evidence in civil and criminal trials. Emphasis is placed upon the central concepts of “relevance” and “prejudice” and detailed consideration is given to the rule against hearsay and its exceptions. The course also treats problems of character, credibility and the impeachment of witnesses and privileges, as well as evidence from experts. The focus is on the Federal Rules of Evidence. The course employs the “problem method”; students will be expected to argue for or against the admission of evidence during class.

Grades are based on class participation, a midterm paper (motion in limine) as well as a final exam that is primarily multiple choice.