Legal Definitions - proffer

A proffer is a way to offer evidence during a trial for the judge to accept or reject. It is used to create a record of what the evidence would have shown if it was admitted.

For example, if a lawyer wants to introduce a piece of evidence, they can make a proffer to the judge. They would explain what the evidence is, who will present it, and what its purpose is. The judge can then decide whether to allow the evidence or not.

Another example is if a witness is not allowed to testify because of a legal issue. The lawyer can make a proffer of what the witness would have said if they were allowed to testify. This way, the information is still on the record even if the witness cannot testify in court.