CAS Bar Evidence

Question 1

What is the California Evidence Code's approach to hearsay?

Accepted Answer

Hearsay is generally inadmissible unless it falls within a statutory exception

Answer

All hearsay is admissible in California courts

Answer

Hearsay rules apply only in criminal cases

Answer

California does not have hearsay rules

Question 2

What is the attorney-client privilege under California Evidence Code Section 954?

Accepted Answer

A client has the right to refuse disclosure of confidential communications made between the client and attorney

Answer

The privilege only covers written communications

Answer

Attorneys can waive the privilege without client consent

Answer

The privilege expires after one year

Question 3

What is the physician-patient privilege in California?

Accepted Answer

A patient can prevent their doctor from disclosing information communicated during treatment

Answer

There is no physician-patient privilege in California

Answer

The privilege only applies to surgical procedures

Answer

Only psychiatrists are covered by the privilege

Question 4

How does California treat character evidence?

Accepted Answer

Character evidence is generally inadmissible to prove conduct on a specific occasion, with exceptions in criminal cases

Answer

Character evidence is always admissible

Answer

Character evidence is only relevant in civil cases

Answer

California has no rules about character evidence

Question 5

What is the best evidence rule under California Evidence Code?

Accepted Answer

The original writing must be produced to prove its content unless an exception applies

Answer

Any copy of a document is always admissible

Answer

The rule requires the best quality evidence available

Answer

Electronic copies are never admissible

Question 6

What are prior inconsistent statements used for in California courts?

Accepted Answer

Both to impeach the witness and as substantive evidence if made under oath at a prior proceeding

Answer

Only to impeach the witness's credibility

Answer

Only as substantive evidence

Answer

They are never admissible in California