Rule 5.405 - Methods of proving charactera.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, the character or trait may also be proved by relevant specific instances of the person's conduct.Report 1983; November 9, 2001, effective February 15, 2002; amended September 28, 2016, effective 1/1/2017.