What Is Hearsay in a Trial

Definition. Hearsay is an out-of-court statement offered to prove the truth of whatever it asserts.

What is an example of hearsay?

The term “hearsay” refers to an out-of-court statement made by someone other than the witness reporting it. For example, while testifying in John’s murder trial, Anthony states that John’s best friend told him that John had killed the victim.

What rule is hearsay?

Rule 801 of the Federal Rules of Evidence defines hearsay as: A statement that the declarant (the person who made the statement) does not make while testifying at the current trial or hearing. Offered in evidence to prove the truth of the matter asserted in the statement.