CJS 252 Criminal Evidence

This course provides an introduction to, and a thorough analysis of, the basic rules of evidence and the application of those rules to the criminal trial practice.A strong emphasis will be placed upon an analysis of the various types of evidence and the issues of admissibility, materiality, and relevancy.Specific topics to be examined will include the significant evidentiary concepts of porbably cause, the different burdens of proof, including guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, presumptions and inferences, the chain of custody, the proper foundation for the introduction of evidence, the authentification of evidence, and judicial notice.Students will also explore the issues of the competency of witnesses and the examination/cross-examination of those witnesses, objections to questions, impeachment techniques, opinion and expert testimony, the qualification of expert witnesses, testimonial privileges and privileged communications, and the hearsay rule and its exceptions. Spring

Credits

3