LAW20009 Week 2 - Character Evidence & Propensity

LAW20009 Week 2 - Character Evidence & Propensity

This Week’s Focus

Understanding character evidence rules, propensity reasoning limitations, and the balance between probative value and prejudicial effect.

📚 Study Materials

Core Content

• Week 2 Collaboration Notes - Character evidence principles and case studies

🎯 Learning Objectives

By the end of this week, you should understand:

• Character evidence rules and exceptions
• Propensity reasoning and its limitations
• Balancing probative value against prejudicial effect
• Practical application in criminal and civil contexts

📝 Quick Reference

Subject	Week	Key Topics
LAW20009	2	Character evidence, Propensity reasoning, Prejudicial effect

🔍 Key Legal Principles

Character Evidence Rule

Evidence of character is generally inadmissible to prove conduct on a particular occasion, subject to specific exceptions.

Balancing Test

Always consider: Does the probative value outweigh the danger of unfair prejudice, confusion, or misleading the jury?

🔗 Related Materials

• Previous Week: Week 1 - Introduction & Relevance
• Next Week: Week 3 Materials
• Foundation: Review s55 Relevance

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Study Strategy

Character evidence builds on relevance principles. Ensure you understand how propensity reasoning relates to the s55 “could rationally affect” test.