Why is hearsay evidence generally not admitted in court?

Hearsay evidence is generally not admitted in court primarily because the original speaker cannot testify under oath. Hearsay refers to statements made outside of the courtroom that are offered as evidence to prove the truth of the matter asserted. Due to the fact that the person who made the original statement is not available to be cross-examined, courts are concerned about the reliability and credibility of such statements. The absence of the speaker makes it impossible to assess the accuracy, context, and intent of the statement.

This approach seeks to uphold the integrity of the judicial process by ensuring that all evidence presented can be adequately scrutinized. Without the ability to test the veracity of the statement through direct examination, hearsay lacks the evidentiary foundation necessary to be deemed trustworthy.

While it is true that hearsay might also introduce confusion or might be seen as irrelevant, the core issue revolves around the necessity for the original speaker's presence to establish the credibility of the statement. This is why the inability of the original speaker to testify under oath is the fundamental reason for the hearsay rule.