NCJ Number
126549
Date Published
1991
Length
460 pages
Annotation
This book describes all of the important rules of evidence, with an emphasis on their applicability in criminal cases.
Abstract
After identifying the sources of evidence law, a description of the adversarial trial process provides the background for a discussion of all rules of evidence. Relevance, the most pervasive of evidence concepts, and hearsay, the most technically challenging rule, are explored. This is followed by a discussion of techniques used by trial lawyers to attack court witness credibility (impeachment). An indepth analysis of the most weighty constitutional principles covers such issues as unlawful search and seizure and the privilege against self-incrimination. The discussion encompasses the Miranda rule and other significant U.S. Supreme Court decisions, along with an examination of the continuing controversy over the proper scope of the exclusionary rule. Testimonial privileges, such as those shielding communications between attorney and client, husband and wife, and informant and law enforcers are addressed. The evidentiary status of confessions, identification procedures, scientific investigation techniques, and expert testimony are also covered. Case examples and blocks of trial testimony illustrate the operations of evidence rules. Subject index and chapter reading lists