Chapter 4: Evidence in Criminal Domestic Violence Cases

4.1Chapter Overview

This chapter addresses evidentiary issues that are likely to arise in criminal cases involving allegations of domestic violence, including the admission of character evidence under Michigan’s rape-shield law and the admission of evidence of other crimes, wrongs, or acts. Also discussed are select hearsay rules and exceptions, evidentiary rules applicable to audiotaped and photographic evidence, expert testimony, and various privileges that arise from marital relationships and relationships with service providers.