| Scientific Evidence |
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| Scientific evidence is demonstrative evidence or evidence that is introduced to prove a fact by some mode other than oral testimony. Scientific evidence is obtained by using the scientific method, a process of scientifically investigating physical evidence. The information obtained is considered valid since it has been tested. Any scientific evidence that is admitted during a trial must be both relevant (tends to prove or disprove the factual matter being considered by the court) and reliable or trustworthy. Handwriting analysis, fingerprint and footprint analysis, DNA analysis, and lie detector test results are all examples of scientific evidence. Generally, an expert witness is called to testify about the reliability of the scientific evidence sought to be introduced at trial. More... |
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| Powers of Attorney |
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| A power of attorney is a legal document in which a person (called the principal) delegates legal authority to another person (called the agent). The power of attorney gives the agent authority to make decisions for the principal in financial, property, and other legal matters. Most states specify the proper legal form for a power of attorney, and some legislatures have approved statutory forms for powers of attorney. Generally the principal's signature on a power of attorney form must be witnessed by a Notary Public.
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| Guidance for a Defendant in Small Claims Court |
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| Small claims courts resolve disputes involving smaller dollar amounts than regular trial courts. For example, small claims courts in Wisconsin decide contract disputes, property damage actions, personal injury suits, evictions, the return of earnest money, and repossessions of property when the amount claimed is $5000 or less. More... |
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| Court Personnel |
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| The persons involved in a trial, besides the parties, include the judge, clerk of the court, court reporter, bailiff, staff attorneys, clerks and lawyers.
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| Jury Consultants |
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| The jury serves a vital function in the American legal system. The jury is the trier of fact in a civil jury trial. The jury's role is to weigh the evidence presented by both sides and reach a verdict. The United States Constitution guarantees a right to trial by jury in civil and criminal cases. The jury must be fair or impartial. The jury pool, the group of individuals from which a particular jury is selected, has to be representative of the community. Voir dire is the process of interviewing potential jurors to determine who will sit on the jury. The purpose of voir dire is to identify and remove individuals who cannot be fair and impartial. It is becoming more and more common for attorneys to hire jury consultants to assist in the selection of jurors, especially for high-profile cases. More... |
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