Haw. Prob. R. 18 (2026)

Rule 18. RULES OF EVIDENCE. The Hawai#i Rules of Evidence, HRS Chapter 626, shall apply to all proceedings. However, the court shall interpret and apply the rules broadly and liberally in the interest of fairness and justice and with the goal of judicial efficiency. COMMENTARY: By their terms (Rule 1101), the Hawai#i Rules of Evidence apply to probate, trust, and guardianship and conservatorship matters. However, thecourt,inexercisingits equitable powers, has generally granted wide latitude in the admission of evidence, without tying itself up with technical readings of the rules. This rule acknowledges the effect of the Rules of Evidence, while encouraging broad and liberal application by the court. The committee felt that this clarification of the court's discretion was necessary. (Commentary amended April 28, 2006, effective July 1, 2006.) V. CONTESTED MATTERS