Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

small claims lasws

in the state of california small claims courts, does

the witness have to be there. can a letter be

submitted. what can they submitt, but do not have to

show up and not be heresay. I want it to hold


Asked on 4/22/00, 7:42 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

John Hayes The John Hayes Law Offices

Re: small claims lasws

If you have a witness who wishes to present testimony at a court hearing they must be present. Written testimony from a witness is not acceptable except in some cases and only if the person is dead. The reason for this is the opposing party cannot cross examine a letter only a real person. The law states that a party has the right to question witnesses who present evidence at a court hearing.

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Answered on 5/25/00, 4:50 am
Jeffrey Zinder Zinder & Koch

Re: small claims lasws

Usually the witness needs to be present. However certain small claims courts may allow a signed report that is a business record, like a medical report or certain other official documents. To be on the safe side you should bring your witness to the hearing and offer live testimony.

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Answered on 5/26/00, 3:38 pm


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