Kentucky Mock Trial Rules

Key Differences from Federal Rules of Evidence

• KRE 404(b) provides a three-part test for admissibility of other-acts evidence that is more structured than the FRE approach
• Kentucky retains the Dead Man's Statute (KRS 421.210) prohibiting interested parties from testifying about transactions with deceased persons
• KRE 702 applies a modified reliability standard for expert testimony that draws from both Daubert and the state's own precedent

Notable Rules

Key Features

• Kentucky Circuit Courts are the trial courts of general jurisdiction for civil claims over $5,000 and all felony cases
• Kentucky uses a unified court system with administrative oversight by the Supreme Court
• Mandatory mediation in civil cases in many judicial circuits before trial scheduling

• Civil juries consist of 6 jurors; verdict requires agreement of at least 5 jurors (five-sixths)
• Criminal felony juries require 12 unanimous jurors
• Misdemeanor cases may be tried with 6 jurors