Rules of Criminal Evidence

Rules of Criminal Evidence provides students with a real-world approach to courtroom procedure, the presentation of evidence in criminal trials, and scenarios future legal professionals are likely to encounter. Through a collection of case studies and enlightening examples, the text demonstrates how the rules of evidence are applied in actual trial settings. Part 1 describes the basics of courtroom procedure and personnel. Part 2 introduces students to the Federal Rules of Evidence, including their foundation and the rules that commonly come into play in criminal cases. Part 3 examines identification evidence and underscores the importance of identifying the subject of the prosecution. In parts 4, 5, and 6, students learn how the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments are relevant to the study of evidence. Coverage includes searches and seizures, the exclusionary rule, the admissibility of confessions, the privilege against self-incrimination, cross examination, and the use of hearsay testimony. Parts 7 and 8 discuss crime scene and physical evidence. The final part speaks to scientific evidence and expert testimony. Designed to provide students with a practical, hands-on perspective, Rules of Criminal Evidence is ideal for courses in criminal justice.