Civil Trials and Evidence is a comprehensive and practical resource providing in-depth and up-to-date guidance for attorneys trying civil lawsuits in California state court.

Written in a clear, concise, and accessible style, it offers thorough analyses of applicable case law, statutes, and rules. To provide the most efficient and practical methods for accomplishing each procedure involved in trial practice, this title includes practice pointers, forms, checklists, and guidelines utilized by experienced trial lawyers. It provides insight into the art of trying a lawsuit, giving you the confidence and expertise to handle every step of litigation.

Civil Trials and Evidence is an invaluable addition to any legal library. It provides litigators with reliable information at their fingertips on all stages of trial practice, from pretrial preparations to post-trial motions.

This practice guide covers a broad spectrum of topics, including:

• Preparing for trial
• Right to jury trial
• Challenging the judge
• Final chambers conference and motions in limine
• Jury selection
• Opening statement
• Jury management during trial
• Evidence, including relevance, foundation, hearsay, other exclusions and limitations, discretionary exclusion, and procedural considerations
• Direct examination
• Cross-examination
• Examination of expert witnesses
• Motions during trial
• Closing argument
• Jury instructions
• Jury deliberations
• Nonjury trials
• Verdicts, judgments, and costs
• Posttrial motions

Written by preeminent legal experts, our comprehensive Rutter Group Practice Guides are indispensable resources for both novice and seasoned attorneys, providing accessible, authoritative guidance. Thoughtfully crafted in a concise, easy-to-read outline format, our guides simplify intricate legal concepts into clear, step-by-step instructions that facilitate swift mastery and application.

Features include:

• Practice Guides with relevant case law, statutes, and court rules focus on issues facing practicing attorneys. Pivotal decisions illuminate key points rather than just providing lists of citations, preparing plaintiffs and defense counsel for a variety of contingencies.
• Practitioners benefit from practical guidance that logically breaks down topics and procedures into manageable steps, illustrated with examples from actual cases.
• Esteemed authors provide expert insights, including battle-tested strategies, tactics, time-saving tips, and "Practice Pointers" to equip you with the wisdom of experienced practitioners.
• Our authors update and revise comprehensive content, which is meticulously edited by Rutter Group attorney-editors, ensuring you stay abreast of the latest legal developments.
• State and federal courts often cite Rutter Group Practice Guides as the authority in their opinions, proving the Guides' reliability.