(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, proof may also be made of specific instances of that person’s conduct.
(As amended Mar. 2, 1987, eff. Oct. 1, 1987.)
added in current removed in current
Compared to current version (2025).
(a) By Reputation or oOpinion. In all cases in whichWhen evidence of a person’s character or a trait of character of a personcharacter trait is admissible, proofit may be madeproved by testimony as tobout the person’s reputation or by testimony in the form of an opinion. On cross-examination, inquiry is allowable of the character witness, the court may allow an inquiry into relevant specific instances of the person’s conduct.
(b) By Specific iInstances of cConduct. In cases in which character or a trait of character of a personWhen a person’s character or character trait is an essential element of a charge, claim, or defense, proof may also be made ofthe character or trait may also be proved by relevant specific instances of thate person’s conduct.
(As amended Mar. 2, 1987, eff. Oct. 1, 1987; Apr. 26, 2011, eff. Dec. 1, 2011.)