What does the Brady Rule state regarding evidence suppression?

The Brady Rule is a legal principle stemming from the landmark case Brady v. Maryland, which asserts that the prosecution has an obligation to disclose to the defense any evidence that is favorable to the defendant, particularly if it could exonerate them or reduce their potential sentence. If this evidence is not disclosed, it constitutes a violation of the defendant's right to due process under the Fourteenth Amendment.

This requirement is fundamental because the failure to provide such exculpatory evidence can lead to wrongful convictions and undermine the integrity of the judicial process. The essence of the Brady Rule emphasizes the importance of fairness in trials and the necessity for both parties to have access to all pertinent information in order to assure a just outcome. This principle is anchored in the idea that justice is best served when all evidence, especially that which might be favorable to the defense, is brought to light.

Therefore, the correct answer reflects the core tenet of the Brady Rule, which is the protection of due process rights for defendants in criminal cases.