Rule 405 — Methods of Proving Character

Fed. R. Evid. 405

• Source: Federal Rules of Evidence
• Rule: 405
• ARTICLE IV: RELEVANCE AND ITS LIMITS
• Citation: Fed. R. Evid. 405

Text

(a) BY REPUTATION OR OPINION. When evidence of a person’s char-
acter or character trait is admissible, it may be proved by testi-
mony about the person’s reputation or by testimony in the form
of an opinion. On cross-examination of the character witness, the
court may allow an inquiry into relevant specific instances of the
person’s conduct.
(b) BY SPECIFIC INSTANCES OF CONDUCT. When a person’s char-
acter or character trait is an essential element of a charge, claim,
or defense, the character or trait may also be proved by relevant
specific instances of the person’s conduct.

Advisory Committee Notes

(As amended Mar. 2, 1987, eff. Oct. 1, 1987; Apr. 26, 2011, eff. Dec. 1, 2011.)