Speaker 1: This video gives you tips about how to get ready for trial.

Speaker 2: The trial is your chance to tell the judge or jury your side of the story. Before the trial, you'll need to think through what evidence you'll need to present. Ask yourself, what information will convince the judge to do what I am asking? You must be ready to present all your evidence on the day of trial.

Speaker 1: Once the trial is over, it is almost always too late to present new information. And if you think of additional evidence during the trial, the judge may not stop the trial to give you time to find and bring that new evidence to court.

Speaker 2: What is evidence? There are two main types of evidence, the testimony of witnesses under oath, and physical evidence, like videos, photos, and documents. Generally, witnesses must testify to firsthand knowledge, in other words, what they saw with their own eyes. A witness usually cannot testify about what someone else told them. That's called hearsay. If what another person told you is important, you typically need to have that person testify to it as a witness.

Speaker 1: Generally, you cannot submit a letter or any sworn written statement in place of the witness's testimony. If you are not sure that a witness will testify voluntarily, you can ask the judge for a subpoena ordering the person to do so. However, you will need to do this before the trial. You may also be able to use documents as evidence, but you will need to learn how the judge in your case is able to receive copies of documents and other evidence. This can vary from case to case.

Speaker 2: There are also rules for what kinds of documents you can use at trial. Please make sure you are following the right rules for your type of case. Get more information on the court's website or in the clerk's office.