Introduction:

In Arizona, evidence is relevant if it has any tendency to make a fact more or less probable than it would be without the evidence. This means that evidence is relevant if it can help the trier of fact (judge or jury) decide the case.

There are a few things to keep in mind about relevant evidence in Arizona:

• Relevant evidence is not always admissible. Even if evidence is relevant, it may still be excluded if it is outweighed by its prejudicial effect.
• The judge decides whether evidence is relevant. The judge will consider the following factors:
  • The probative value of the evidence: This is the extent to which the evidence tends to prove or disprove a fact in issue.
  • The prejudicial effect of the evidence: This is the extent to which the evidence is likely to inflame the minds of the jurors or make them more likely to decide the case against a party.
  • The availability of other evidence: If there is other evidence that is just as probative as the challenged evidence, the challenged evidence may be excluded.
  • The public interest in the fair administration of justice: The judge may also consider the public interest in ensuring that the truth is revealed, even if it means admitting evidence that is prejudicial.
• The parties can object to the admission of evidence that they believe is not relevant.

Examples of relevant evidence in Arizona:

• A witness’s testimony about what they saw or heard.
• A document or object that is related to the case.
• The results of a scientific test.
• A confession or admission by a party to the case.

Conclusion:

Relevant evidence is an important part of the legal process. It can help the trier of fact decide the case and get to the truth. If you are involved in a legal case, it is important to speak to an attorney about what evidence is relevant to your case.

Citations:

• Arizona Rules of Evidence, Rule 401. Relevant Evidence.
• Arizona Rules of Evidence, Rule 402. Admissibility of Relevant Evidence.
• Arizona Rules of Evidence, Rule 403. Excluding Relevant Evidence for Prejudice, Confusion, Waste of Time, or Other Reasons.
• Arizona Rules of Evidence, Rule 103. Rulings on Evidence.

https://www.azcourts.gov/portals/20/ad%20hoc%20evidence%20committee/rulesevidxoutvers.pdf

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