“I’ll Give It the Appropriate Weight” Is Not a Rule of Evidence

Few courtroom phrases are more soothing—or more dangerous—than this response to a valid hearsay objection: “I’ll admit it, but I’ll give it the appropriate weight.” The phrase sounds disciplined. It…

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Divorce Litigants Need (and Deserve) Basic Courtroom Education Before Evidentiary Hearings and Trial

Utah law already recognizes that divorce is a life-altering event. Under Utah Code § 81-4-105, parents must attend an orientation course because the state knows this process is emotionally volatile and…

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