§ Rule 405 Methods of Proving Character

Rule 405. Methods of Proving Character

    (a) Reputation or opinion. In all cases in which evidence of character or a trait of character of a person is admissible, proof may be made by testimony as to reputation or by testimony in the form of an opinion. On cross-examination, inquiry is allowable into relevant specific instances of conduct.

    (b) Specific instances of conduct. In cases in which character or a trait of character of a person is an essential element of a charge, claim, or defense, or pursuant to Rule 404(c), proof may also be made of specific instances of that person's conduct.

    APPLICATION

    Applicable to cases pending on and after that date, except civil cases as to which the final trial date is set to occur between December 1, 1997 and February 1, 1998 and criminal cases as to which the final trial date is set to occur between
December 1, 1997 and January 15, 1998.