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Evidence
Part of the common law series
Types of evidence
Testimony · Documentary Physical / Real · Digital Exculpatory · Scientific Demonstrative Eyewitness identification Genetic (DNA) · Lies
Relevance
Burden of proof · Laying a foundation Public policy exclusions Character · Habit · Similar fact
Authentication
Chain of custody Judicial notice · Best evidence rule Self-authenticating document Ancient document
Witnesses
Competence · Privilege Direct examination · Cross-examination  · Redirect Impeachment · Recorded recollection Expert witness · Dead Man's Statute
Hearsay and exceptions
in English law · in United States law Confessions · Business records Excited utterance · Dying declaration Party admission · Ancient document Declaration against interest Present sense impression · Res gestae Learned treatise · Implied assertion
Other common law areas
Contract · Tort · Property Wills, trusts and estates Criminal law
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In law, a foundation is sufficient preliminary evidence of the authenticity and relevance for the admission of material evidence in the form of exhibits or testimony of witnesses. Material evidence is important evidence that may serve to determine the outcome of a case. Exhibits include real evidence, illustrative evidence, demonstrative evidence, and documentary evidence. The type of preliminary evidence necessary to lay the proper foundation depends on the form and type of material evidence offered.

The lack of foundation is a valid objection that an adverse party may raise during trial.

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