appeals process under CA civil rules, can new evidence be introduced or presented at appeal

In depends on the circumstances. But, In most cases, newly acquired information cannot be introduced on appeal. Generally, the court will only consider arguments and evidence presented at trial or at the lower court proceedings.

There may be very narrow, specific exceptions to this rule, but generally the answer is that no. New evidence may not be introduced or presented on appeal. Rules of appellate procedure governing civil appeals require that any evidence that a party wants the appellate court to consider on appeal must have first been introduced in the trial court. This rule derives from the different functions of trial and appellate courts. Trial courts decide factual and legal issues. Appellate courts decide legal issues by reviewing the existing trial court record to determine whether the trial court made an error that harmed the appellant's case.