Legal Definitions - foundation

Definition: Foundation has two meanings. Firstly, it refers to the basis for admitting testimony or evidence into evidence. Secondly, it refers to a fund or endowment that is established for a benevolent purpose.

Foundation is the basis for admitting testimony or evidence into evidence. For example, if an attorney wants to admit an expert witness testimony or a company's business records into evidence, they must lay a foundation. Laying a foundation establishes the qualifications of a witness or the authenticity of the evidence.

Example: In a court case, a lawyer wants to admit a document as evidence. The lawyer must lay a foundation by showing how the document is relevant to the case and how it was obtained. This establishes the authenticity of the evidence and allows it to be admitted into evidence.

Foundation also refers to a fund or endowment that is established for a benevolent purpose, such as charity, religion, education, or research.

Example: A wealthy individual establishes a foundation to support education in underprivileged communities. The foundation provides scholarships, builds schools, and supports educational programs. This foundation is a fund or endowment that is established for a benevolent purpose.

Overall, foundation can refer to the basis for admitting testimony or evidence into evidence, or a fund or endowment that is established for a benevolent purpose.