Are there any restrictions on the type of evidence I can submit in a small claims court case?
Yes, there are restrictions on the type of evidence you can submit in a small claims court case in Massachusetts. The court generally does not accept evidence in the form of expert testimony in small claims court cases. Instead, small claims courts will accept evidence that consists of written documents, photographs, physical objects, and witness testimony. Documents you may submit as evidence must be either originals or certified copies of originals. Photographic evidence must be verified as a true and accurate representation of the thing being represented. You may also submit physical objects, such as a defective item purchased from a store. Witness testimony is allowed, but the witness must appear in court in person to testify. All witnesses should be prepared to answer questions posed by the court, the defendant, and the plaintiff. The court may also call additional witnesses to confirm or refute evidence submitted. It is important to note that Massachusetts law does not permit individuals to present evidence in the form of hearsay. This means that testimony about what someone else said cannot be used as evidence in a small claims court case. It is also important to keep in mind that all evidence submitted in a small claims court case must be relevant to the case. The court will not accept evidence that is not pertinent to the issues at hand.
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