Conn. R. Evid. 1-4

As amended through April 25, 2023
Section 1-4 - Limited Admissibility

Evidence that is admissible as to one party but not as to another, or for one purpose but not for another, is admissible as to that party or for that purpose. The court may, and upon request shall, restrict the evidence to its proper scope.

Conn. Code. Evid. 1-4

Amended Dec. 14, 2017, to take effect 2/1/2018.

COMMENTARY

Section 1-4 is consistent with Connecticut law. See Blanchard v. Bridgeport, 190 Conn. 798, 805, 463 A.2d 553 (1983); State v. Tryon, 145 Conn. 304, 309, 142 A.2d 54 (1958).

Absent a party's request for a limiting instruction, upon the admission of evidence, the court is encouraged to instruct the jury on the proper scope of the evidence or inquire whether counsel desires a limiting instruction to be given. See Rokus v. Bridgeport, 191 Conn. 62, 67, 463 A.2d 252 (1983); cf. State v. Cox, 7 Conn. App. 377, 389, 509 A.2d 36 (1986). Nothing precludes a court from excluding evidence offered for a limited purpose or taking other action it deems appropriate when a limiting instruction will not adequately protect the rights of the parties. See Blanchard v. Bridgeport, supra, 190 Conn. 805.