Trial Advocacy Basics Quotes

“Examine the witness who will introduce the exhibit in a way that establishes competence and relevance and makes the introduction of the exhibit become part of the story of the trial. 2) Show the exhibit to opposing counsel, the judge, and the witness. Say to opposing counsel and the judge, “I’m going to show the witness the exhibit marked as Plaintiff’s Number 1.” Show them a copy. Say to the judge, “Your Honor, may I approach the witness?” Say to the witness, “I am showing you what has been marked for identification as Plaintiff’s Exhibit Number 1.” 3) Have the witness identify the exhibit. Show the exhibit to the witness. Say, “Please tell the jury what it is.” Or, “What is it?” 4) Lay any necessary evidentiary foundation: Authenticate the exhibit through testimony that shows that the exhibit is what you say it is. Complete the foundation with testimony that shows that the exhibit is not excludable on any other grounds. 5) Offer the exhibit. Say, “Your Honor, I move plaintiff’s exhibit Number 1 be admitted into evidence.” Or, “Your honor, I offer plaintiff’s exhibit Number 1 in evidence.” 6) Publish the exhibit to the jurors. Don’t forget to use it!”
― Molly Townes O'Brien, Trial Advocacy Basics