Test for Relevant Evidence

Evidence is relevant if: (a) it has any tendency to make a fact more or less probable than it would be without the evidence; and (b) the fact is of consequence in determining the case. [Restyled effective July 1, 2016.] Advisory Committee Historical Note Effective July 1, 2016, the Rule was amended as part of the general restyling of the Evidence Rules. Effective June 16, 2016, the “Comment” was retitled “Advisory Committee Note.” Advisory Committee Note The language of Rule 401 has been amended as part of the restyling of the Evidence Rules to make them more easily understood and to make style and terminology consistent throughout the rules. The Rule has been restructured, adding subdivisions. These changes are intended to be stylistic only. There is no intent to change any result in any ruling on evidence admissibility.