Is ``reliable hearsay´´ an oxymoron?

Answer 1

No. In fact, that terms refers to a specific catch-all category of hearsay exceptions.

Hearsay is a statement made out-of-court, where the statement is being offered as a true statement. Many things are not considered hearsay, and there are many hearsay exceptions.

Almost all the hearsay exceptions are based on the concept that the particular situation makes that particular statement reliable. Excited utterances (made about a starting event as it happens), because it is likely they are not pre-fabricated. Documents kept in the regular course of business, because the practice makes their contents reliable. Ancient documents (20+ years old) because their age makes them unlike to have been fabricated for this trial. And so on.

Then there is a general catch-all exception for statements made when the speaker/writer is not available, if the circumstances indicate that the speaker/writer is likely being truthful and where it is unlikely the speaker/writer was preparing something for later court proceedings. In other words, where the statement can be relied upon because the speaker/writer had no reason to lie.

Hearsay is not the same as rumor. It has a specific legal meaning. So no, reliable hearsay is not an oxymoron. It is in fact a commonly accepted legal practice used in courts every day.

Answer 2

There is no reliable hearsay. In the law of the court hearsay is basiclly thrown out as evidence.

Answer 3

Yes it's definitely an oxymoron.

Answer 4

Yes because it contradicts itself. hearsay is gossip which is not reliable.

Answer 5

LOL that's funny. I just read your previous question.......way to pay attention.

Answer 6

may be

Answer 7

both

Answer 8

You got it.

Answer 9

indeed