EZRCP · Virginia · Part Three - Practice and Procedure in Civil Actions · Va. Sup. Ct. R. 2:405

Va. Sup. Ct. R. 2:405. — Methods of Proving Character Traits

Virginia · Part Three - Practice and Procedure in Civil Actions

Open on EZRCP

Rule text

(a) Reputation proof. Where evidence of a person's character trait is admissible under these Rules, proof may be made by testimony as to reputation; but a witness may not give reputation testimony except upon personal knowledge of the reputation. On cross-examination, inquiry is allowable into relevant specific instances of conduct.

(b) Specific instances of conduct. In cases in which a character trait of a person is an essential element of a charge, claim, or defense, proof may also be made of specific instances of conduct of such person on direct or cross-examination.

Adopted and promulgated by Order dated June 1, 2012; effective July 1, 2012.