proffer n : a proposal offered for acceptance or rejection; "it was a suggestion we couldn't refuse" [syn: suggestion, proposition] v : present for acceptance or rejection; "She offered us all a cold drink" [syn: offer]

English

Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -ɒfə(r)

Etymology

• From proferre.

Noun

1. An offer made; something proposed for acceptance by another; a tender; as, proffers of peace or friendship.
2. Essay; attempt.

Verb

1. To offer for acceptance; to propose to give; to make a tender of; as, to proffer a gift; to proffer services; to proffer friendship.
2. To essay or attempt of one's own accord; to undertake, or propose to undertake.

Translations

To proffer (sometimes profer) means to offer evidence in support of an argument, or elements of an affirmative defense or offense, often at trial. A party with the burden of proof must proffer sufficient evidence to carry that burden.

For example, in support of a particular argument, a party may proffer documentary evidence or witnesses.

Where a party is denied the right to introduce evidence because that evidence would be inflammatory, hearsay, or would lack sufficient authentication, that party must make a proffer of what the evidence would have shown in order to preserve the issue for appeal.

See also

• Due process
• Offer of proof
• Jury trial
• Preliminary hearing
• Trial by ordeal
• Unofficial hearing

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