Relevancy, Rule 403, and Character Evidence Flashcards
Discover the limits of what can be used as evidence. Learn when character evidence can be introduced and what types of character evidence can be introduced.
Define
relevant evidence
Evidence that:
- Has the tendency to make a fact more or less probable than it would be without the evidence; and
- The fact is of consequence in determining the action
Define
logical relevance
Evidence that has logical tendency to prove or disprove a fact of consequence.
Define
conditional relevancy
Occurs when one item’s relevance is conditioned on the relevance of another piece of evidence
What is the Rule 403 balancing test?
Relevant evidence may nonetheless be excluded if the probative value is substantially outweighed by a danger of one or more of the following:
- Confusing the issues;
- Misleading the jury;
- Needlessly presenting cumulative evidence
- Unfair prejudice;
- Undue delay; or
- Wasting time
What is the only type of evidence that is an exception to the 403 balancing test? (i.e. will be admitted without 403 balancing test)
Evidence of a conviction of a felony or misdemeanor involving dishonesty that is less than 10 years old.
Define
direct evidence
Evidence that proves a fact or set of facts without the need to draw an inference
Define
circumstantial evidence
Facts that logically establish other facts via an inference
Define
demonstrative evidence
Evidence prepared in anticipation of trial, such as a poster, photograph, or diagram, to assist the jury or fact finder
What is the general rule regarding the admissibility of character evidence in civil cases?
Evidence of a person’s character or character trait is not admissible to prove that on a particular occasion the person acted in accordance with the character or trait. However, evidence may be admitted if the person’s character is in issue (e.g. defamation case).
When admissible, what are the three ways character evidence can be introduced?
- Reputation testimony;
- Opinion testimony; and
- Specific acts
Who can offer testimony as to a witness’s reputation?
Anyone who is aware of the witness’s reputation in the relevant community
Who can offer opinion testimony on a witness’s character?
Anyone who has sufficient personal, first-hand knowledge to form an opinion about the particular trait.
Can character evidence be used to establish an essential element of the claim?
Yes, when a person’s character is an ultimate issue in the case.
List examples of proceedings where character is an essential element of the claim
- Defamation
- Negligent hiring
- Negligent entrustment
- Child custody
When character is an essential element of the claim, what type of character evidence is admissible?
- Reputation testimony;
- Opinion testimony; and
- Relevant specific instances of that person’s conduct
⚠️ Note: This is one of only a few circumstances in which specific instances/acts may be offered.
When can evidence of D’s character be admitted in a criminal case?
By the defendant:
- Reputation or opinion evidence of D’s own good character if trait is pertinent to charge (e.g. peacefulness if a murder trial)
- ⚠️ Cannot be introduced by specific acts!!
By the prosecution:
- If D has “opened the door” by offering his own character evidence, the prosecution can introduce character evidence to directly rebut D’s evidence; or
- If D has introduced evidence of V’s trait under FRE 404(a)(2)(A), prosecution can introduce evidence of D’s same trait (e.g. “V is violent,” “No, you’re violent”)
- ⚠️ Can be introduced by reputation or opinion testimony, and specific acts on cross-examination. Extrinsic evidence of specific acts is not allowed.
When can evidence of V’s character be admitted in a criminal case?
By the defendant:
- Reputation or opinion evidence on V’s trait if pertinent to a defense asserted (e.g. showing V was violent to support first-aggressor claim)
By the prosecution:
- To directly rebut D’s claim of V’s bad character
- Homicide cases: can rebut claim D’s claim that V was the first aggressor by showing V had character for peacefulness (D is not required to “open the door”)
- Reputation, opinion, and specific acts allowed on cross
Is character evidence admissible to impeach?
Yes, admissible for impeachment and to prove reputation for truthfulness
Are prior bad acts admissible to prove D’s character and that he acted in conformity therewith?
No, but they may be admissible to show:
- Absence of Mistake;
- Common Plan or Scheme;
- Identity;
- Intent;
- Knowledge;
- Motive;
- Opportunity; and
- Preparation
⚠️ Note: This list is non-exhaustive.
For what purpose can the prosecution cross-examine character witnesses about specific acts?
To impeach the witness, including by suggesting that the witness doesn’t know the accused well (e.g. “Well, you say D is truthful, but did you know he cheated on the bar exam?)
In a criminal case in which D is accused of sexual assault, can the prosecution offer evidence of D’s prior similar sexual acts?
Yes, the court may admit evidence that D committed any other sexual assault. The evidence may be considered on any matter to which it is relevant.
⚠️ Note that prior sexual assaults are far more likely to be admitted than other previous crimes, as this test is relatively broad.
In a criminal case in which D is accused of child molestation, are prior acts admissible?
Yes, the court may admit evidence that D committed any other child molestation. The evidence may be considered on any matter to which it is relevant.
⚠️ Note that prior child molestations are far more likely to be admitted than other previous crimes, as this test is relatively broad.