In the Courtroom

Our In the Courtroom articles section brings you inside the courthouse. Learn more about how the judicial process works.

Recent Stories

Jury Dodgers: What really happens if you ignore your jury summons?
Sep 2008

You know you've been tempted to do it - to toss your jury summons in the garbage and pretend it got lost in the mail. Besides, what's the worst that can happen? It's not like missing jury duty is a crime...or is it? more...

Objection: Hearsay! What is the hearsay rule, and what are the exceptions to it?
Sep 2008

Although the term itself may seem self-explanatory, there is more to the hearsay rule than is covered on Perry Mason. Broadly defined, "hearsay" is testimony or documents quoting people who are not present in court, and hearsay evidence is inadmissible for lack of a firsthand witness. But, evidence always seems to make its way into court through various exceptions. So what exactly are they? more...

The "CSI Effect": Juries Demand More Evidence
Sep 2008

CBS has CSI and CSI Miami. NBC has Law & Order and Law & Order: SVU. Court TV has Forensic Files. As these courtroom dramas and docu-dramas draw a combined audience of over 50 million viewers, it is not surprising that the effect of their popularity is becoming evident in the real world, specifically in real-life criminal trials. more...

How to Get Out of a Ticket
Sep 2008

So, you were driving too fast on the freeway again and got another speeding ticket. You know you're not doing your driving record any favors. Of course, the best thing to do from here on out is to be a safe, law-abiding driver, and stick to driving within the speed limit. Unfortunately, nothing will guarantee your immunity - even then you just might get pulled over. How can you avoid getting slapped with a ticket? Is it really possible? Below are some tips for getting out of a traffic ticket for a moving violation, or at least making the attempt. more...