The hearsay rule is a legal concept that restricts the use of second-hand information as evidence in court. The principle requires that out-of-court statements cannot be used as evidence unless they fall under specific exceptions. Synonyms for the hearsay rule include the rule against hearsay, the prohibition against hearsay, and the hearsay exclusion rule. The principle is intended to prevent unreliable or false information from being used to convict someone of a crime. It is a crucial aspect of the criminal justice system and ensures that only factual and relevant evidence is admissible in court. While the principle may seem restrictive, it serves an essential purpose in upholding the integrity of the legal process.