§ Rule 412 Sexual Offenses - Victim's Past Behavior

Codes > Washington Rules of Evidence > Title 4 > Rule 412

ER 412
SEXUAL OFFENSES - VICTIM'S PAST BEHAVIOR

(a) Criminal Cases. [Reserved. See RCW 9A.44.020.]

(b) Civil Cases; Evidence Generally Inadmissible. The following evidence is not admissible in any civil proceeding
involving alleged sexual misconduct except as provided in sections (c) and (d):

(1) Evidence offered to prove that any alleged victim engaged in other sexual behavior.

(2) Evidence offered to prove any alleged victim's sexual predisposition.

(c) Exceptions. In a civil case, evidence offered to prove the sexual behavior or sexual predisposition of any alleged
victim is admissible if it is otherwise admissible under these rules and its probative value substantially outweighs the danger of harm to any victim and of unfair prejudice to any party. Evidence of an alleged victim's reputation is admissible only if it has been placed in controversy by the alleged victim.

(d) Procedure to determine admissibility.

(1) A party intending to offer evidence under section (c) must:

(A) file a written motion at least 14 days before trial specifically describing the evidence and stating the purpose for
which it is offered unless the court, for good cause, requires a different time for filing or permits filing during trial; and

(B) serve the motion on all parties and notify the alleged victim or, when appropriate, the alleged victim's guardian or representative.

(2) Before admitting evidence under this rule the court must conduct a hearing in camera and afford the victim and
parties a right to attend and be heard. The motion, related papers, and the record of the hearing must be sealed and remain under seal unless the court orders otherwise.