Brady rule legal definition

Evidence or information favorable to the defendant in a criminal case that is known by the prosecution. Under the United States Supreme Court case of Brady v. Maryland (1963), the prosecution must disclose such material to the defendant if requested to do so. Under subsequent United States Supreme Court cases, the material must also be disclosed, even if not requested, if it is obviously helpful to the defendantÂ’s case. These requirements are collectively known as the Brady rule.