What is the Military Rules of Evidence (MRE)?

The Military Rules of Evidence (MRE) are a set of laws that applies to courts-martial proceedings in the state of Washington. The MRE provides the standards by which a legal case for a military crime is tried and the evidence that is allowed as proof. It also establishes the rules for how witnesses testify, the documents that are admitted, and the rules for how those documents can be used in court. The MRE is divided into two categories: General and Special. The General provisions include rules for the proof of facts, rules for the admissibility of evidence, rules for the use of character evidence, and rules for determining the competency and credibility of witnesses. The Special provisions include rules for the use of documentary evidence, rules for the authentication and authentication procedures, rules for the use of scientific evidence, and rules for the admission and use of tape recordings. The MRE also includes specific rules on the use of hearsay evidence. Hearsay evidence is any statement made by a person which is not based on the witness’s firsthand knowledge but rather relies on the statement of another person. The rules on hearsay evidence allow for certain exceptions when the statement is reliable, necessary, and trustworthy. The MRE provides a comprehensive framework for the courts-martial process in Washington and ensures that service members receive fair and impartial trials. It is important that all service members understand these rules in order to protect their rights and receive a fair trial.

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