Which case requires the prosecution to disclose exculpatory evidence to the defense?

Which case requires the prosecution to disclose exculpatory evidence to the defense?

• A. Jencks Act
• B. Brady v. Maryland
• C. Giglio
• D. Rule 16

Answer: (B)

Disclosing exculpatory evidence to the defense is a due-process protection that ensures a fair trial. Brady v. Maryland establishes that the prosecution must reveal any exculpatory evidence favorable to the defendant and material to guilt or punishment. This direct duty to disclose exculpatory material is why this option is the best answer. The other items involve related discovery rules but not the explicit obligation to disclose exculpatory evidence. The Jencks Act covers production of a witness’s prior statements after testimony for impeachment purposes. Giglio extends Brady to require disclosure of evidence affecting a witness’s credibility, such as prior convictions. Rule 16 governs broader discovery in federal cases, including some favorable evidence, but Brady specifically creates the affirmative duty to disclose exculpatory material.

Disclosing exculpatory evidence to the defense is a due-process protection that ensures a fair trial. Brady v. Maryland establishes that the prosecution must reveal any exculpatory evidence favorable to the defendant and material to guilt or punishment. This direct duty to disclose exculpatory material is why this option is the best answer.

The other items involve related discovery rules but not the explicit obligation to disclose exculpatory evidence. The Jencks Act covers production of a witness’s prior statements after testimony for impeachment purposes. Giglio extends Brady to require disclosure of evidence affecting a witness’s credibility, such as prior convictions. Rule 16 governs broader discovery in federal cases, including some favorable evidence, but Brady specifically creates the affirmative duty to disclose exculpatory material.