Opinion ID: 1121458
Heading Depth: 5
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Diamond Article

Text: The prosecutor used an article by Dr. Bernard Diamond, entitled With Malice Aforethought, in his cross-examination of Dr. Raffle, and a portion of the article was read to the jury in the course of the examination. Section 721, subdivision (b) of the Evidence Code governs the use of scholarly works in the cross-examination of expert witnesses. This subdivision permits the use of such materials when the expert referred to, considered, or relied upon such publication in arriving at or forming his opinion. (Evid. Code, ง 721, subd. (b)(1).) In light of (1) Dr. Raffle's testimony that he considered or relied upon all of his training in arriving at his conclusions, (2) the relationship of the abolished defenses of diminished capacity and irresistible impulse to his opinion that defendant lacked the intent to commit his crimes due to a rage reaction, and (3) Dr. Raffle's former association with Dr. Diamond and his familiarity with Dr. Diamond's works, including the article in question, the cross-examination of the witness using this scholarly work was permissible. We find no violation of defendant's federal or state constitutional or statutory rights arising from the use of this article during trial.