New York Law (NYLE) Practice Exam 2025 - Free NYLE Practice Questions and Study Guide

In evaluating whether evidence should be excluded for being prejudicial, a judge primarily considers the potential impact of the evidence on the jury's decision-making process. The concern is that evidence may unduly confuse or mislead the jury, detracting from their ability to focus on the relevant facts of the case.

When evidence is deemed confusing or misleading, it may distract the jury from the actual issues at hand or lead them to make judgments based on emotional responses rather than factual determinations. The judge must weigh the probative value of the evidence against its potential to cause such confusion.

Other considerations, such as whether evidence is scientifically valid, was obtained unlawfully, or whether the jury can understand it, can play a role in a broader assessment of the evidence. However, the determination of exclusion based on prejudice is largely focused on the jury's ability to remain objective and undistracted in the face of potentially inflammatory or unclear evidence. This nuanced understanding of jury dynamics is crucial for maintaining a fair trial process.