Publishing an Exhibit

Publishing an Exhibit

Publishing an Exhibit

Publication presents an admitted exhibit to the jury through display, distribution, or reading. Courts control the manner and timing, and permission is typically requested after admission.

Some courts require exhibits be admitted before display.

Alternative Names:

Publication to the Jury, Showing an Exhibit

Why it Matters?

The sequence of marking, laying foundation, offering, admitting, and publishing is where trial mechanics go wrong, and displaying a document before admission draws an objection that interrupts the examination. Confirming the court's practice on whether display requires express permission avoids that. Publication timing also affects impact, since a document the jury reads while a witness testifies about it lands differently than one displayed alone.

Frequently asked questions

What is the correct sequence?

What is the correct sequence?

Marking, foundation, offer, admission, and then publication, since displaying before admission draws an objection.

Does admission permit display?

Does admission permit display?

Practice varies. Some courts require express permission to publish, which should be confirmed before trial.