LGS 142 - Evidence and Electronic Discovery

Learn the fundamental principles of e-discovery, exploring the responsibilities placed on parties to safeguard, gather, assess, and disclose electronically stored information (ESI) during legal discovery. Also, examine the rules governing the introduction and use of evidence in trial, including the rules governing the testimony of witnesses, the introduction of evidence and hearsay, and the threshold standards determining the admissibility of all evidence. Lab fee $10.

Prerequisite(s): LGS 111  with grade of C or better.

Location(s) Typically Offered: Arnold Main Campus (MC) and Online (OL)

Term(s) Typically Offered: Fall, spring, and summer

Course Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Explain the fundamental concepts of eDiscovery, including responsibilities associated with preserving, collecting, reviewing, and producing electronically stored information (ESI) during the discovery process.
2. Identify the various types and characteristics of ESI and assess the methods for effectively managing and complying with eDiscovery requirements at each stage of the process.
3. Apply the rules of evidence as they relate to various trial situations, including determining whether evidence is relevant or admissible.
4. Evaluate evidentiary issues such as bias, admissibility, competency and relevancy that are impacted by dynamics of power, social economic status, race, gender, religion, etc.
5. Apply the rules of hearsay to determine whether testimony is hearsay and/or whether a hearsay exception applies.
6. Explain the difference between opinion testimony from a layperson and from an expert and elements of admissibility for each.