Meaning: The quote, "When police or prosecutors conceal significant exculpatory or impeaching material, we hold, it is ordinarily incumbent on the state to set the record straight," reflects the importance of transparency and accountability within the criminal justice system. This statement was made by Ruth Bader Ginsburg, an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, in the case of Kyles v. Whitley in 1995.

In this quote, Justice Ginsburg highlights the duty of the state to ensure that all relevant evidence, especially evidence that could exonerate or undermine the credibility of a defendant, is disclosed. It emphasizes the fundamental principle that the pursuit of justice requires a fair and balanced presentation of evidence, and that any attempts to conceal or withhold material that could impact the outcome of a case are unacceptable.

The concept of "exculpatory or impeaching material" refers to evidence that could either support the innocence of the accused (exculpatory) or challenge the credibility of witnesses or evidence presented by the prosecution (impeaching). This could include witness statements, forensic evidence, or any other information that could significantly affect the outcome of a trial.

When Justice Ginsburg mentions that it is "ordinarily incumbent on the state to set the record straight," she is asserting that the responsibility for ensuring the integrity of the legal process lies with the state, including law enforcement agencies and prosecutors. It is their duty to disclose all relevant information, even if it may be unfavorable to their case, in order to uphold the principles of due process and fairness.

This quote is particularly significant in the context of criminal justice reform and the ongoing efforts to address issues of wrongful convictions, prosecutorial misconduct, and the need for increased transparency in the legal system. It underscores the importance of holding law enforcement and prosecution accountable for their actions and ensuring that defendants receive a fair trial based on all available evidence.

In the Kyles v. Whitley case, the Supreme Court ruled that the prosecution's failure to disclose significant evidence favorable to the defendant violated his constitutional rights. This decision reinforced the principle articulated by Justice Ginsburg in the quote, emphasizing the obligation of the state to provide a complete and accurate presentation of evidence in criminal proceedings.

Overall, Justice Ginsburg's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the fundamental principles of justice and fairness that underpin the legal system. It underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and the duty of the state to ensure that all relevant evidence is disclosed in the pursuit of truth and justice.

In conclusion, Ruth Bader Ginsburg's quote highlights the critical role of the state in ensuring the fair and transparent administration of justice. It emphasizes the obligation to disclose all significant exculpatory or impeaching material, reflecting the fundamental principles of due process and fairness in the legal system. This quote continues to resonate as a guiding principle in efforts to reform and improve the criminal justice system.