Trial Procedure

Authenticating Evidence

If you want to present documents, recordings, or other items at trial, you’ll need to prove they’re real, unless they qualify as self-authenticating under federal rules. Understanding how to authenticate evidence can help you avoid delays and make sure your case is heard fairly. Here's what you need to know.

Pre-Trial Motions

Before your trial begins, you may need to ask the court to dismiss charges, get access to evidence, or block certain information from being used. These requests are called pre-trial motions. Understanding how and when to file them can help protect your rights and strengthen your case.

Subpoenas

If you're preparing for trial in Menominee Tribal Court, you can ask the court to issue a subpoena to make sure your witnesses or evidence show up. Even supportive witnesses should be subpoenaed to protect your case. Here's how subpoenas work and what to do if someone doesn’t comply.

Pre-Trial Discovery

If you're charged with a crime, you have the right to know what evidence the prosecutor plans to use against you. One way to get that information is by filing a Demand for Discovery and Inspection. This request helps you prepare your defense and ensures a fair trial. Here's what you can ask for and how the process works.

Reasonable Doubt

If you're charged with a crime in Menominee Tribal Court, the Tribe must prove you're guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. That means they have to show clear, convincing evidence for every part of the crime. Knowing the elements of each charge can help you challenge the case and prepare your defense.

Right to a Speedy Trial

You have the right to a speedy, public trial and the Tribe must prove every part of the charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt. Understanding the deadlines for filing charges and starting trial, along with the elements of each crime, can help you prepare your defense and protect your rights.

Witnesses

At trial, you and the Tribe will each have the chance to call and question witnesses. Knowing how direct and cross-examination work—and following the rules—is essential to presenting your case effectively and avoiding serious mistakes like witness tampering.

Testimonial Objections

During trial, you have the right to object to testimony that doesn’t follow the rules of evidence. Knowing when and how to object—especially for issues like hearsay, relevance, or leading questions—can help you protect your rights and keep improper evidence out of the courtroom. This guide explains common objections and how to use them effectively.