Greer v. United States

Background

The case involves a man tried for bringing whiskey into the part of Oklahoma formerly in Indian Territory. He was convicted, fined, and jailed. At trial he asked the judge to tell the jury that people accused are presumed to have good character. The judge refused that instruction but told the jury the defendant was presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The appeals court upheld the conviction, and the higher court reviewed conflicting lower-court rulings to decide the issue.

Reasoning

The Court addressed whether a jury must be told that a defendant is presumed to be of good character. The opinion explains that character is a factual matter, not a legal presumption; it can be proved by witnesses if the defendant chooses to make it an issue. Because the government can only rebut such evidence if the defendant opens the door, the Court said there cannot be an unattackable presumption in the defendant's favor. The established presumption of innocence remains intact, but a general presumption of good character does not.

Real world impact

This ruling affects trial practice in criminal cases. Defendants remain free to present character witnesses, but courts are not required to tell juries that good character is presumed. Prosecutors may respond if defendants introduce character evidence. The recognized presumption of innocence continues to guide jury instructions. The decision settles a circuit split and affirms the defendant's conviction.

Dissents or concurrances

Justice McKenna dissented. The opinion as provided does not state his reasoning.