If evidence is found to be incompetent, it is usually because the courts have determined that it falls within one of three general categories. Name these three, and give examples of evidence that would fall within each of the categories.

Question

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The Answer is The three general categories of incompetent evidence are hearsay, relevance, and prejudice.

Hearsay evidence is when a statement is made out of court and is offered in court to prove the truth of the matter asserted. For example, if a witness testifies that they heard someone else say that the defendant committed the crime, that would be considered hearsay.

Relevance refers to evidence that does not have any bearing on the case at hand and does not help to prove or disprove any fact in question. For instance, if in a case about a car accident, the color of the defendant's shirt is brought up as evidence, it would likely be deemed irrelevant.

Prejudice involves evidence that is more likely to inflame the emotions of the jury or judge rather than help them make a fair and impartial decision. This could include graphic photos or videos that serve no purpose other than to shock or upset the jury.

If Evidence Is Found to Be Incompetent, It Is Usually