Rule 103. Rulings on Evidence

Rulings on Evidence.

(A)

Effect of erroneous ruling

Error may not be predicated upon a ruling which admits or excludes evidence unless a

substantial right of the party is affected, and

(1)

Objection

In case the ruling is one admitting evidence, a timely objection or motion to

strike appears of record, stating the specific ground of objection, if the

specific ground was not apparent from the context; or

(2)

Offer of proof

In case the ruling is one excluding evidence, the substance of the evidence

was made known to the court by offer or was apparent from the context

within which questions were asked. Offer of proof is not necessary if

evidence is excluded during cross-examination.

Once the court rules definitely on the record, either before or at trial, a party need not renew

an objection or offer of proof to preserve a claim of error for appeal.

(B)

Record of offer and ruling

At the time of making the ruling, the court may add any other or further statement which

shows the character of the evidence, the form in which it was offered, the objection made,

and the ruling thereon. It may direct the making of an offer in question and answer form.

(C)

Hearing of jury

In jury cases, proceedings shall be conducted, to the extent practicable, so as to prevent

inadmissible evidence from being suggested to the jury by any means, such as making

statements or offers of proof or asking questions in the hearing of the jury.

(D)

Plain error

Nothing in this rule precludes taking notice of plain errors affecting substantial rights

although they were not brought to the attention of the court.