EVIDENCE (3) (REQ650)

Professors Susan Abraham, Eugene Cerruti, Randolph Jonakait and Richard Sherwin

A study of the Anglo-American rules of proof, emphasizing the Federal Rules of Evidence. The scope and function of the rules are examined against the background of problems arising in the trial of an issue of fact, and the rules are evaluated on the basis of their tendency to promote or impede a rational method of investigation. Topics covered include the relevance of evidence; the hearsay rule and its exceptions; examination of witnesses, cross-examination, and impeachment; competency of witnesses; opinion, expertise, and experts; scientific and demonstrative evidence; writing; the best evidence rule and authentication; privileges of witnesses; judicial notice; presumptions.