Welcome back to our evidence law class.
In this session, we'll explore the complex topic of character
evidence, understanding when and how character evidence can be
introduced as crucial in many legal cases.
By the end of this session, you'll have a solid grasp of the
rules governing character evidence and its admissibility.
No. For today's topics, character
evidence defined defining character evidence and its
relevance in legal proceedings, distinguishing between character
evidence related to conduct and character evidence related to
reputation. Character evidence in criminal
cases character evidence in support of a defendant's good
character prosecution's limited use of character evidence to
rebut the defendant's claim. Character evidence in civil
cases it's more restricted role in civil cases compared to
criminal cases. The admissibility of character
evidence to prove a person's propensity to act in a certain
way. Exceptions and special
circumstances. Exploring exceptions where
character evidence may be admitted, such as in cases of
sexual assault or child custody disputes.
Balancing the probative value of character evidence against its
prejudicial impact. Now, for some examples and case
studies. Criminal trial defendants good
character in a criminal trial for assault.
The defendant's attorney wants to introduce character evidence
about the defendant's reputation for nonviolence.
Explore the admissibility and purpose of this evidence.
Character evidence in a child custody case In a child custody
dispute one parent wants to introduce evidence of the other
parents reputation for irresponsibility.
Discuss the challenges and limitations of using character
evidence in this context. Now for some questions.
Character evidence in criminal cases.
How can character evidence be used in a criminal case,
especially when it relates to the defendants character?
In a criminal case, character evidence can be introduced by
the defendant to show their good character, or by the prosecution
to rebut the defendant's claims about their character, Balancing
probative value and prejudice Why is it important for the
court to balance the probative value of character evidence
against its potential prejudicial impact?
Balancing probative value against prejudice ensures that
the introduction of character evidence is fair and that it
doesn't unduly influence the jury based on a person's
reputation. Rather than the facts of the
case, This concludes our session for today.
Join us next week for Session 5, Hearsay Rule and its exceptions.