Character Evidence

Question 1

In civil cases, character evidence is not _____ to prove conforming conduct (propensity). However character evidence is admissible if an element of _____ is at issue.

Answer 1

NOT admissible;
unless an element of character is at issue
(defamation, negligent hiring, negligent entrustment, child custody)

Question 2

The prosecution ____ introduce evidence of a def’s bad character to prove that the def has a propensity to have ____ the crime the question.

Exception: the def may present ____ character evidence that is consistent with the type of crime that is being charged (must match trait violence= peaceful). Form of evidence must be through _____ in community or opinion testimony.

Answer 2

CANNOT
committed

the def may present positive
reputation or opinion

Question 3

A criminal defendant may introduce evidence of the _____ character that is relevant to one of the defenses asserted.

The prosecution can offer ____ character evidence only after the def introduced the _____ character.

Answer 3

Victim’s

good character evidence
victim’s character

Question 4

Prior acts are \_\_\_\_ admissible to show propensity, but are \_\_\_\_\_ to show:
motive
Intent
absence of mistake
identity 
common plan

Answer 4

NOT admissible

admissible to show