Today’s Tip for Commercial Litigators: Have a Game Plan for Introducing Documents at Trial
Thursday, September 5, 2013

When opposing counsel objects to the introduction of a document at trial, a good attorney will be able to respond by citing the evidentiary basis for why the objection should be overruled. This is the result of good preparation.

In advance of court, write out the evidentiary basis for every document you intend to offer into evidence. Juries need to be able to see the documents that support your case. Know how to lay the foundation for business records. Know when you need a custodian of records. Know by statutory reference when a document is self-authenticating. Know the particular exception to hearsay. You do not want the jury to be denied the ability to review documents because opposing counsel’s evidentiary objection is sustained. This mishap can, and should, be avoided.

 

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