RPR Legal Terminology and Courtroom Procedures 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does 'in limine' mean when an attorney files a motion in limine?
- At the threshold — to exclude certain evidence before trial (Correct answer)
- At the conclusion — to summarize trial evidence
- In secret — to seal court records
- In writing — to submit evidence to the record
Correct answer: At the threshold — to exclude certain evidence before trial
A motion in limine is filed to exclude potentially prejudicial evidence before trial begins.
Question 2: What is a 'subpoena duces tecum'?
- A command to produce documents or physical evidence (Correct answer)
- A summons requiring personal appearance in court
- A court order granting immunity
- An order to cease and desist an action
Correct answer: A command to produce documents or physical evidence
A subpoena duces tecum orders a party to bring specified documents or records to court.
Question 3: In US courts, the term 'overruled' from a judge in response to an objection means what?
- The objection is denied and the witness may answer (Correct answer)
- The objection is sustained and the question is disallowed
- The case is dismissed
- The testimony is stricken from the record
Correct answer: The objection is denied and the witness may answer
When a judge overrules an objection, the questioning may continue and the witness must answer.
Question 4: What is 'hearsay' evidence in US federal court?
- An out-of-court statement offered to prove the truth of the matter asserted (Correct answer)
- Expert testimony that contradicts another expert
- A document not authenticated by its author
- Testimony given without oath
Correct answer: An out-of-court statement offered to prove the truth of the matter asserted
Hearsay is an out-of-court statement introduced to prove the truth of what was stated, generally inadmissible.
Question 5: What does the Latin phrase 'nolo contendere' mean as a legal plea?
- I do not contest it — accepting punishment without admitting guilt (Correct answer)
- I am not guilty — a full denial of charges
- I request a continuance — a delay in proceedings
- I plead ignorance — lack of knowledge as a defense
Correct answer: I do not contest it — accepting punishment without admitting guilt
Nolo contendere means the defendant does not contest the charges but does not admit guilt.
Question 6: The phrase 'res ipsa loquitur' is used in what type of legal argument?
- Negligence cases where the accident itself implies fault (Correct answer)
- Contract disputes involving implied warranties
- Criminal cases asserting double jeopardy
- Constitutional arguments about due process
Correct answer: Negligence cases where the accident itself implies fault
Res ipsa loquitur ('the thing speaks for itself') allows negligence to be inferred from the nature of an injury.
RPR Legal Terminology and Courtroom Procedures 2
What does 'in limine' mean when an attorney files a motion in limine?