What Does It Mean When They Say Sustained in Court?
When it comes to court proceedings, there is a specific language and set of rules that govern how cases are handled. One term you may hear frequently during a trial is “sustained.” Understanding what it means when a judge says “sustained” is crucial, especially if you find yourself involved in legal proceedings. In this article, we will explore the meaning of “sustained” in court, its implications, and answer some frequently asked questions.
What does it mean when the judge says “sustained”?
When a judge says “sustained” during a court proceeding, it means that they have agreed with an objection raised one of the attorneys. The objection could be related to evidence, a question asked, or the behavior of a witness or attorney. By sustaining an objection, the judge is essentially agreeing that the objection is valid and that the evidence or statement in question will not be allowed or considered the jury.
Why do attorneys make objections?
Attorneys make objections to protect their client’s rights and ensure a fair trial. Objections can be made for various reasons, such as hearsay, leading questions, relevance, improper character evidence, and more. By objecting, attorneys aim to prevent the introduction of evidence that may be prejudicial or inadmissible under the rules of evidence.
What happens after a sustained objection?
After a sustained objection, the attorney who made the objection may request a specific action to be taken. For example, they may ask the judge to instruct the jury to disregard the statement or evidence, or they may request a sidebar conference to discuss the objection further. The judge will then decide on the appropriate course of action.
Can sustained objections affect the outcome of a trial?
Yes, sustained objections can have an impact on the outcome of a trial. If a sustained objection prevents the introduction of crucial evidence or testimony, it could weaken one party’s case or prevent the other party from presenting their defense effectively. The judge’s decision to sustain or overrule objections can significantly shape the narrative presented to the jury.
Are sustained objections final?
In most cases, sustained objections are final, meaning that the evidence or statement objected to will not be considered the jury. However, there may be instances where the judge allows the attorney to rephrase the question or present the evidence in a different manner to address the objection. The judge has discretion in determining how to handle sustained objections.
What is the opposite of a sustained objection?
The opposite of a sustained objection is an overruled objection. When an objection is overruled, it means that the judge disagrees with the objection and allows the evidence or statement to be considered the jury. Overruling objections can be seen as a win for the opposing attorney, as it allows them to present their case as intended.
Can sustained objections be appealed?
Yes, sustained objections can be appealed if an attorney believes that the judge made an error in their ruling. However, it’s important to note that sustained objections alone are typically not grounds for an appeal. To succeed in an appeal, the attorney must demonstrate that the sustained objection significantly affected the outcome of the trial and resulted in an unfair or incorrect judgment.
In conclusion, when a judge says “sustained” in court, it means that they have agreed with an objection raised one of the attorneys. Sustained objections can have a significant impact on the outcome of a trial, as they prevent certain evidence or statements from being considered the jury. Understanding the meaning of “sustained” and its implications is essential for anyone involved in legal proceedings.