What are the rules of evidence?

The rules of evidence are a set of laws that determine what type of information can be presented in court. In Pennsylvania, the rules of evidence generally allow for a wide range of evidence to be admitted, including testimony from witnesses, physical evidence, and documents. Witness testimony is particularly important in court because it provides evidence of a person’s observations or personal knowledge of what happened. It is essential that witnesses provide credible and reliable testimony. Witnesses generally must swear or affirm under oath to tell the truth. Evidence can also be physical in nature, such as a weapon, a damaged vehicle, or a piece of clothing that a witness or defendant was wearing at the time of the alleged incident. Documentary evidence includes items such as contracts, sales receipts, and financial records. The rules of evidence also restrict some types of evidence. Hearsay, for instance, is not allowed because it is unreliable. Evidence obtained through illegal searches and seizures is also inadmissible. All evidence must be proven before it can be admitted into the court record. In conclusion, the rules of evidence in Pennsylvania ensure that all court proceedings are fair and just. It is important for all involved in the legal process to understand and abide by these rules.

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