Rule 405. Methods of proving character.
(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, or where the character of the victim relates to the reasonableness of force used by the accused in self defense, proof may also be made of specific instances of that person's conduct.
History: Ad. Sup. Ct. Ord. 12729, Dec. 29, 1976, eff. July 1, 1977; amd. Sup. Ct. Ord. June 7, 1990, eff. June 7, 1990.
Structure Montana Code Annotated
Chapter 10. Montana Rules of Evidence
Part Article IV. Relevancy and Its Limits
Rule 401. Definition of relevant evidence
Rule 402. Relevant evidence generally admissible; irrelevant evidence inadmissible
Rule 403. Exclusion of relevant evidence on grounds of prejudice, confusion, or waste of time
Rule 405. Methods of proving character
Rule 406. Habit; routine practice
Rule 407. Subsequent remedial measures
Rule 408. Compromise and offers to compromise
Rule 410. Offer to plead guilty; nolo contendere; withdrawn plea of guilty