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Formal
IVT
Brady material
Exculpatory evidence that prosecution must disclose, including mental health records relevant to credibility or culpability.
Full Definition
Evidence favorable to the defense that must be disclosed by the prosecution under Brady v. Maryland (1963). In forensic psychiatry contexts, Brady material often includes mental health records, substance abuse history, or cognitive assessments that might affect witness credibility or defendant culpability. Failure to disclose such material can result in case dismissal or reversal on appeal. The materiality standard requires that the evidence could reasonably affect the outcome of the proceeding.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize Brady when referring to the legal doctrine.
In Context
- "The defendant's psychiatric hospitalization records constituted Brady material requiring disclosure." — Legal motion
- "Defense counsel argued that the witness's undisclosed mental health history was Brady material." — Appellate brief
Also known as
exculpatory evidence
Brady disclosure
Contrasted with
inculpatory evidence
Don't confuse with
Jencks material
work product