What is the general status of hearsay evidence in criminal cases?

Hearsay evidence is generally deemed inadmissible in criminal cases because it is based on out-of-court statements, which are not subject to the scrutiny of cross-examination. This principle is rooted in concerns about the reliability and credibility of such evidence. The legal system requires that evidence presented in court be capable of being challenged and tested, and hearsay does not meet this standard since the original speaker is not present to provide testimony or be cross-examined.

Exceptions do exist where hearsay may be admissible, such as under specific legal statutes or rules like spontaneous statements or statements against interest. However, the overarching rule is that hearsay is typically excluded in criminal proceedings precisely because it does not uphold the quality of evidence expected in a court of law.

The other options either misinterpret the nature of hearsay or misapply the rules related to evidence in criminal versus civil cases. While some may consider hearsay admissible under certain conditions, the prevailing view in criminal law is to approach it with caution, leading to its general inadmissibility.