GMU Rules of Evidence
CS 306 Mock Trial Project

The GMU Rules of Evidence permit the following Objections:

1.   Objection: "Relevance"
    Meaning:  The question asked is not relevant to the issues in dispute.

    Exceptions:  (a) The question is laying a foundation for evidence that will be relevant.
                        (b) The opposing side "opened the door" (i.e. already commented about this topic)

2.    Objection:  "Calls for a conclusion on the part of the witness"
    Meaning:  The question is asking the witness to make a conclusion regarding various bits of information, something only an expert is permitted to do.
    Exception:  The witness has been qualified as an expert in the field, and so is permitted to make conclusions within the realm of his/her area of expertise.
(Note that in our cases, the witnesses must be factual witnesses rather than experts, so this exception would not ordinarily make sense.)

3.    Objection:  "Calls for Speculation"
    Meaning:  The question is asking the witness to speculate on something, rather than state known facts.

4.    Objection:  "Assumes facts not in evidence"
    Meaning:  The question requires the witness to assume something that has not already been shown by other testimony.

5.    Objection: "Hearsay"
    Meaning:  The question is asking the witness to repeat something s/he heard from someone else.
    Due to the extremely complex number and nature of traditional hearsay exceptions, no exceptions will be permitted under these GMU rules
    (Note:  Statements offered for a purpose other than to prove their truth are not considered hearsay.  For example, a witness may testify to a statement heard that contradicts an earlier statement made by another witness, for impeachment purposes.)

6.    Objection:  "Leading the Witness"
    Meaning:  The question is giving the witness information about what the intended answer ought to be.
        (Example:  "So, is that when he pointed the gun at you?")
    Exception:  When dealing with an opposing party's witness, you are permitted to lead.

7.    Objection:  "Asked and Answered"
    Meaning:  The question is just reiterating something that has already been covered (perhaps to emphasize a response to the judge or jury).

8.    Objection:  "Counsel is testifying"
    Meaning:  The attorney is making factual statements rather than only asking a question.  (The attorney is not allowed to testify.)