Section 28.19 Hearsay Exceptions: Pedigree, Abandoned Pleadings

• Library: Family Law Deskbook and 2014 Supp

D. (§28.19) Hearsay Exceptions: Pedigree, Abandoned Pleadings

Certain exceptions to the rule against hearsay may become particularly useful in parentage litigation. One exception is the pedigree exception—allowing hearsay evidence to establish lineage. Brown v. Conway, 598 S.W.2d 549 (Mo. App. W.D. 1980). The elements of the pedigree exception to the hearsay rule are as follows:

The declarant must be unavailable.

There must be circumstantial indication of trustworthiness.

The declaration must have been...