Ariz. R. Evid. 405

As amended through December 6, 2023

Rule 405 - Methods of Proving Character

(a)By Reputation or Opinion. When evidence of a person's character or character trait is admissible, it may be proved by testimony 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 character or character trait is an essential element of a charge, claim, or defense, or pursuant to Rule 404(c), the character or trait may also be proved by relevant specific instances of the person's conduct.

Ariz. R. Evi. 405

Amended Oct. 19, 1988, effective 11/1/1988; 8/19/1997, effective 12/1/1997; 9/8/2011, effective 1/1/2012.

COMMENT TO 2012 AMENDMENT

The language of Rule 405 has been amended to conform to the federal restyling of the Evidence Rules to make them more easily understood and to make style and terminology consistent throughout the rules. These changes are intended to be stylistic only. There is no intent to change any result in any ruling on evidence admissibility.

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.

HISTORICAL NOTE

Source:

Federal Rules of Evidence, Rule 405.

Fed.Rules Civ.Proc., Rule 43(b), 28 U.S.C.A. Code 1939, § 21-922.

Rule Civ.Proc., former Rule 43(g).