LawBank Lunchtime Webinar, “What You Wish You Were Taught in Law School… Understanding the Rules of Evidence,” Presented by Karen Steinhauser
As part of the LawBank Trial Series, Karen Steinhauser presented a webinar to LawBank’s solo and small law firm community titled, “What You Wish You Were Taught in Law School… Understanding the Rules of Evidence.” Karen serves as a Judge for Aurora Municipal Court, an Adjunct Law School Professor at the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, and a NITA instructor. She is a recognized leader in trial advocacy and is a former prosecutor and defense attorney.
This lunchtime program, which took place on August 3, 2020, provided insight into best practices for trial lawyers, including hearings, social media, and other topics. Karen’s tips included using the HAR PO acronym for remembering evidence rules (“Hearsay, Authenticity, Relevance Prejudice, and Original Writing”). Karen also discussed ways to object including motions in limine, the scope of cross examination, character evidence, extrinsic evidence or collateral evidence rule, and 404B evidence (specific instances or other acts using to prove things other than act propensity).
Karen addressed the importance of knowing in advance the purpose of the evidence that is being admitted. She advised to read the rules and refer to your exhibits clearly by labeling them clearly. Karen provided information on what can be blocked when it comes to social media as evidence, and one of her main points was to make sure that you access it properly if you intend to use it as evidence. Karen recommended that if you are participating in a hearing with evidence presented it is important to find out from the court staff and judges what their court procedures are, as they are different and changing every day.
If you are interested in joining future presentations, visit the events page to view the upcoming programs hosted by LawBank.
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