Starting in the 1970's, most states in the U.S. began passing what are known as "rape shield laws." These laws state that a rape victim's reputation of sexual conduct shall not be admissible in court. The laws also say that it is unlawful to disclose the name of any individual identified as an alleged rape victim. The purpose of these laws is to protect rape victims from public scrutiny, however, there are unintended consequences of rape shiled laws. These laws have often kept juries from hearing evidence that is highly relevant to the case. Without this evidence, it is impossible for a judge or jury to make an informed decision about the guilt or innocence of the ac
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