Character Evidence in Criminal Cases

A defendant may offer pertinent character evidence; prosecution may rebut once door is opened.

Related Relevance & Exclusions rules

• Relevance StandardEvidence is relevant if it has any tendency to make a fact of consequence more or less probable.
• Rule 403 BalancingRelevant evidence may be excluded if its probative value is substantially outweighed by dangers like unfair prejudice…
• Character Evidence: Propensity BanCharacter evidence is generally inadmissible to prove conduct in conformity with a character trait.
• Victim Character in Self-DefenseDefendants may introduce victim’s violent character to show initial aggression; prosecution may rebut with peaceful…
• Specific Acts for Non-PropensitySpecific acts may be admitted for non-propensity purposes such as motive, intent, identity, plan, or absence of mistake.
• MIMIC RuleMIMIC evidence (motive, intent, identity, common plan) is admissible if relevant and not propensity-based.
• Character in Civil CasesCharacter evidence is generally inadmissible in civil cases unless directly at issue.
• Rape Shield RuleRape shield bars evidence of a victim’s sexual behavior or predisposition except in narrow exceptions.

Part of Evidence on Core Legal Rules — foundational MBE-tested principles with primary-source citations.