Monday, September 11, 2023

For Tuesday

Monday audio.

We continue with Policy-Based Exclusions, covering FRE 407-409 and 411 (skip 410). Note that FRE 408 is very confusing in its text, so take the time to parse it out. We start with how FRE 407 affects the evidence about Ross telling Kerry not to make accusations but to come to him when she has concerns. Prep the remaining problems for this section. Please note, by the way, that the policy of a rule does not determine whether evidence comes in or not; the text of the rule decides that. The policy justifies the rule and perhaps gives guidance as to what the text means and how to apply it. But don't look to the policy, rather than the text, in arguing and deciding an evidentiary issue.

We move to Special Rules in Sexual Assault, covering FRE 412 (the rape-shield) and FRE 413-415 (other acts of sexual assault and child molestation). How do these rules fit together? What is their purpose or policy goals; do they achieve those goals; and do those goals make sense? Why make special rules for sexual assault? What does "sexual predisposition" entail?