Profiles, Syndromes, and the Rule 405 Problem: Addressing a Form of Disguised Character under the Federal Rules of Evidence

Authors

Michael D. Claus

Abstract

The article focuses on concerns related to scientific and predictive profiling of criminals under the Rule 405 of the Federal Rules of Evidence. It reflects on the Rule 405 in which scientists, doctors and criminologists explain the characteristics of a "convicted murderer profile" and discusses how this profiling can be used by lawyers as evidence against defendants. It mentions that people, who are aggressive, use weapons and living with abusive parents, are more likely to turn murderers.

Recommended Citation

Michael D. Claus, Profiles, Syndromes, and the Rule 405 Problem: Addressing a Form of Disguised Character under the Federal Rules of Evidence, 88 Notre Dame L. Rev. 973 (2012).
Available at: https://scholarship.law.nd.edu/ndlr/vol88/iss2/9