Evidence
Business Records Exception
A hearsay exception for records kept in the regular course of business under reliable recordkeeping conditions.
Governing rule: Fed. R. Evid. 803(6)
Plain-English definition
The business records exception allows certain routine records into evidence even though they contain out-of-court statements. The theory is that regular business recordkeeping carries reliability because businesses depend on accurate records to operate.
How it works
A qualified witness or certification usually establishes that the record was made near the time by someone with knowledge and kept as part of regular activity.
Why it matters
This exception is central to debt cases, employment disputes, medical billing, bank records, and corporate litigation.
Related terms
More in Evidence
Attorney-Client Privilege
A protection for confidential communications between attorney and client made for the purpose of seeking or giving legal advice.
Authentication
The requirement to show that evidence is what the offering party claims it is.
Burden of Proof
The obligation to prove a claim, defense, or issue to the required legal standard.
Clear and Convincing Evidence
A heightened proof standard requiring evidence stronger than preponderance but below beyond a reasonable doubt.
Daubert Motion
A pre-trial challenge to the admissibility of expert testimony, asking the court to act as gatekeeper over scientific or technical evidence.
Expert Witness
A witness allowed to give opinion testimony because specialized knowledge will help the factfinder understand evidence or decide facts.
Hearsay
An out-of-court statement offered to prove the truth of what the statement asserts.
Motion in Limine
A pretrial motion asking the court to admit, exclude, or limit specific evidence before the jury hears it.
Not legal advice. Definitions are for general reference. Consult an attorney before relying on any term in a real case.