How do I object to a witness or evidence in a small claims court hearing?

In Washington, if you want to object to a witness or evidence in a small claims court hearing, there are certain steps you need to take. First, you must identify yourself for the record and state your objection. For example, you could say, “I object to this evidence because it is hearsay.” When you make your objection, be sure to provide any legal authority on which your objection is based, such as a relevant statute or case law. Make sure to explain why the evidence or witness is inadmissible and why it will not help you make your case. Second, you should explain to the court why admitting the evidence or having the witness testify would not be fair or in the interest of justice. If you think that a witness is unreliable or that the evidence will prejudice the jury or mislead the court, you need to explain why you think this. Third, you should ask the judge to make a ruling on your objection. The judge will either sustain, overrule, or reserve your objection. If the judge sustains your objection, the evidence or witness will be excluded from the court proceedings. If the judge overrules your objection, the evidence or witness will be admitted. If the judge reserves your objection, they will decide on the matter later in the court proceedings. Finally, if the judge does not make a ruling or you disagree with the ruling, you should make a record of your objection in the court transcripts. This will allow you to appeal the judge’s decision if you lose your case. Making a record of your objection in the court transcripts is key to preserving your rights to appeal.

Related FAQs

How do I submit a request to the court for additional time in a small claims court case?
How do I file a motion to have a case heard in small claims court?
Can I represent someone else in small claims court?
Are there any rules prohibiting me from collecting a small claims court judgment outside of court?
What happens if I disagree with the decision in a small claims court case?
When is the plaintiff's evidence due in a small claims court hearing?
What is small claims court?
What is the process of obtaining a judgment in a small claims court case?
Can I request attorney fees in a small claims court case?
How do I submit a written statement in a small claims court case?

How do I object to a witness or evidence in a small claims court hearing?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts