What is the standard of review on a trial court’s decision to admit or exclude evidence?

In Indiana, the standard of review on a trial court’s decision to admit or exclude evidence is whether it was an abuse of discretion. When an appellate court reviews a trial court’s decisions on admitting or excluding evidence, the court will not disturb the trial court’s ruling unless it finds that the trial court abused its discretion. An abuse of discretion occurs when the trial court has made a decision that is irrational, arbitrary, or unfounded. For example, when a trial court has excluded evidence that is relevant, and the exclusion of that evidence would have affected the outcome of a trial, then the appellate court will likely find an abuse of discretion on the part of the trial court. On the other hand, when the trial court has admitted evidence that was not relevant, then the appellate court will likely find that the trial court did not abuse its discretion. In Indiana, the appellate court will review the sufficiency of the evidence based on a preponderance of the evidence. This means that the court must determine whether the evidence presented in favor of the admitting or exclusion of evidence is greater than the evidence presented against it. In conclusion, when it comes to admissions or exclusions of evidence in Indiana, the appellate court will review the trial court’s decision to determine if it was an abuse of discretion. The court will consider whether the decision was irrational, arbitrary, or unfounded. Additionally, the court will review the sufficiency of the evidence based on a preponderance of the evidence.

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