Evidence Law Lecture Thirty-Six - Character Evidence: Permissible Uses and Prohibitions

This conversation delves into the complexities of character evidence in law, focusing on the federal rules of evidence, particularly Rules 404, 405, 406, 608, and 609. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the admissibility of character evidence, the distinctions between civil and criminal trials, and the strategic implications for litigators. Key concepts such as the propensity rule, methods of proving character, and the nuances of impeachment are explored, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of how character evidence operates within the legal system.

Takeaways

Understanding character evidence is crucial for law students.

The propensity rule prohibits using character to prove conduct.

Reputation testimony must be based on community consensus.

Specific instances of conduct are generally inadmissible.

Civil cases have stricter rules on character evidence than criminal cases.

Defendants can introduce good character evidence in criminal trials.

The prosecution cannot initiate character attacks in criminal cases.

Habit evidence is distinct from character evidence.

Impeachment can be done through character for truthfulness.

Prior convictions can be used to impeach a witness's credibility.

character evidence, evidence law, federal rules of evidence, legal strategy, courtroom tactics, admissibility, civil trials, criminal trials, propensity evidence, impeachment