Summary
Brady v. Maryland requires prosecutors to disclose material evidence favorable to the accused when it bears on guilt or punishment. The rule protects the fairness of criminal trials and applies regardless of whether the prosecution acted in good or bad faith.
Legal Issue
Does the prosecution violate due process by suppressing evidence favorable to an accused when that evidence is material to guilt or punishment, even if the suppression was not in bad faith?
Holding
Yes. The Supreme Court held that suppression by the prosecution of evidence favorable to an accused who requested it violates due process when the evidence is material either to guilt or to punishment, regardless of good faith or bad faith. The Court affirmed Maryland's decision limiting Brady's new trial to punishment because the suppressed confession affected punishment, not guilt under the state court's view.
Rule of Law
If the government has important evidence that helps the accused on guilt or punishment, it cannot hide it. A fair conviction requires fair disclosure.
Court Reasoning
Not yet summarized.
Impact for Officers
Brady obligations shape criminal discovery, police evidence handling, prosecutor training, post-conviction litigation, and law-enforcement documentation practices. Reports, statements, recordings, impeachment material, and forensic issues may all matter if they are favorable and material.
What Officers Can Do
Not yet summarized.
What Officers Should Avoid
Not yet summarized.
Common Misunderstanding
Not yet summarized.