Character Evidence

Question 1

Character Evidence in Civil Cases Distinction

Answer 1

No rule allowing evidence of D’s similar acts of sexual assault or child molestation (civil cases only)

Question 2

Evidence of Victim’s Bad Character in Criminal Cases

Answer 2

Only allowed to present evidence on trait of violence

Question 3

Prior Acts of Sexual Assault and Molestation

Answer 3

Expands to include similar acts in domestic violence and elder abuse cases

Question 4

Victim’s Character in Criminal Case

Answer 4

Generally: once D opens door, opinion, reputation, and specific conduct are all admissible

Homicide Cases: Evidence of V’s peaceful character not allowed in homicide case to rebut evidence that V was aggressor

NOTE: PROP 8 DOES NOT APPLY TO V