Which rule addresses lack of personal knowledge?

Which rule addresses lack of personal knowledge?

• A. Rule 603
• B. Rule 601
• C. Rule 702
• D. Rule 602

Answer: (D)

Having personal knowledge is essential for a witness to testify about a fact. The rule that addresses lack of personal knowledge states that a witness may not testify to a matter unless there is enough evidence to show the witness has personal knowledge of the matter. Personal knowledge means the witness perceived the facts through their own senses or has firsthand information, not something learned from others or based on rumors. This rule directly prevents testimony when a witness hasn’t observed or experienced the matter firsthand. The other rules don’t specifically govern the requirement of personal knowledge: one covers the need for an oath, another the general competency of witnesses, and another deals with the qualifications of expert testimony.

Having personal knowledge is essential for a witness to testify about a fact. The rule that addresses lack of personal knowledge states that a witness may not testify to a matter unless there is enough evidence to show the witness has personal knowledge of the matter. Personal knowledge means the witness perceived the facts through their own senses or has firsthand information, not something learned from others or based on rumors. This rule directly prevents testimony when a witness hasn’t observed or experienced the matter firsthand. The other rules don’t specifically govern the requirement of personal knowledge: one covers the need for an oath, another the general competency of witnesses, and another deals with the qualifications of expert testimony.