What are the rules of evidence in criminal cases?

In criminal cases, the rules of evidence are designed to ensure fair trials and protect individuals’ rights. In South Carolina, the Rules of Evidence are laid out in the South Carolina Code of Laws - Title 17, Chapter 1 (also known as the South Carolina Evidence Code). These rules provide legal standards for the introduction of evidence in criminal cases. Generally speaking, evidence is anything that can be used to prove or disprove facts in a case. According to the South Carolina Evidence Code, all relevant evidence is admissible, or allowed to be presented in court, unless the South Carolina Evidence Code or state constitution states otherwise. Relevant evidence is any evidence that is likely to influence a jury or judge in reaching a decision about a case. In South Carolina, if evidence is considered “irrelevant” or has a prejudicial effect on a case, it may be excluded from the trial. The South Carolina Evidence Code also outlines various rules of authentication, which determine how evidence may be presented and what types of witnesses are allowed to testify. Additionally, the South Carolina Evidence Code includes provisions that deal with the admissibility of certain statements or records, such as confessions and documentation of prior criminal history. In sum, the rules of evidence in criminal cases in South Carolina are set out in the South Carolina Evidence Code. These rules provide the legal standards for what types of evidence can be admitted into a criminal trial, how the evidence can be presented, and who can serve as witnesses.

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What are the rules of evidence in criminal cases?

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