Over the past several weeks we've reviewed various different types of evidence. Last week, we examined one particular example of evidence: polygraph tests. We cast doubt on their validity. This week we'll look at fingerprints. Every crime show seems to place a great deal of emphasis on fingerprints. But are fingerprints reliable evidence? What do [...]

You've seen them before in movies and TV shows. Maybe from Meet the Parents, Seinfeld, or Vanity Fair. A lot of people know about polygraph tests, but few people understand how they work. Maybe you've even heard that some states and districts no longer admit their results as evidence in a trial! If you face [...]

For the past couple of weeks we've examined different types of evidence. We've contrasted hearsay and circumstantial evidence and physical and circumstantial evidence. Now, it's important we take a step back. All sorts of categories exist for understanding evidence. But we need to look at the two broadest ways of categorizing evidence. This includes understanding [...]

Last week, we took a look at the differences between hearsay and circumstantial evidence. In that article, we briefly defined the differences between physical evidence and circumstantial evidence. However, we feel it may be helpful to our readers to double back and provide further clarity on physical and circumstantial evidence. This type of information can [...]

Generally, two types of evidence exist in a criminal trial: circumstantial evidence and physical evidence. The difference is easy to understand. Physical evidence directly links the accused to the crime, while circumstantial evidence merely suggests their guilt. But what about the difference between hearsay and circumstantial evidence? If you watch courtroom dramas, maybe you've heard, [...]

If you've been subpoenaed or listed as a possible witness for a trial, it can feel like a lot of pressure. What should you say? What shouldn't you say? What if the judge yells at you? How should you dress? All of these matters can impact a case. Thankfully, a good lawyer never leaves a [...]

Most cases involving a defendant under the age of 18 fall under the juvenile justice system. This court system features different rules than the court system for adults. Unlike adult courts, juvenile courts mainly focus on rehabilitating the defendant. This means an emphasis on reform and change rather than just punishment and deterrence. However, sometimes the [...]

We've discussed what "beyond a reasonable doubt" means several times before, here and here. However, it's necessary in this case to show the connection between this idea and "innocent until proven guilty." If you recall from last week, this phrase means that the court needs to assume the innocence of the accused until the facts [...]

You've heard the phrase "innocent until proven guilty" before. Maybe from a movie, TV show, in your own case, or even from this website. But what does "innocent until proven guilty" mean? Does it apply to all court cases and trials? Furthermore, what does it have to do with "guilty beyond a reasonable doubt"? Most [...]