Rule 5.101 Scope; definitions

These rules explain when and how evidence rules apply in Iowa courts. They set the ground rules for what counts as evidence and how it can be used in a case, whether it's a civil lawsuit or a criminal trial. Rule 5.1101 spells out any specific exceptions, so that rule tells you when these evidence rules might not apply.

The definitions section clears up what certain words mean when you see them used in the evidence rules. For example, "civil case" simply means a civil action or lawsuit, and "criminal case" covers criminal proceedings. Terms like "public office" also include public agencies, and "record" covers things like reports, memos, or collections of data.

A few other definitions matter too. "Other Iowa Supreme Court rule" means any rule the Iowa Supreme Court has officially adopted. Any mention of written material or other types of media also includes information stored electronically, like emails or digital files. Finally, the word "victim" includes someone who is only alleged to be a victim, meaning the case hasn't been proven yet.