Meta Description: A Legal Overview Explore the purpose, key provisions, and critical exceptions of US Rape Shield Laws, including Federal Rule of Evidence 412, which strictly limits the admissibility of a sexual assault victim’s past sexual history in both criminal and civil proceedings to ensure justice and protect privacy. Introduction: Shifting the Focus in Sexual […]
Meta Description: Rape shield laws are critical statutes designed to protect sexual assault complainants by limiting the introduction of irrelevant and prejudicial evidence about their past sexual history during trial. Learn about the federal standard (FRE 412), its specific exceptions, and the necessary procedural safeguards like *in camera* hearings. This guide explores how these laws
META DESCRIPTION Rape shield laws are critical statutes designed to limit the admission of a victim’s sexual history in sexual assault trials. Learn the purpose, legal framework (like Federal Rule of Evidence 412), key exceptions, and procedural protections that safeguard complainants and encourage the pursuit of justice. The Critical Role of Rape Shield Laws in