An exception to the hearsay rule of evidence. When a witness who is not a party to the lawsuit is unable or unavailable to testify, a statement made by that witness that is against the best interests of the witness (e.g. a statement that might incriminate the witness in another crime, a statement that could cause embarrassment and humiliation to the witness) may be admissible. Such statements are deemed to be more reliable.
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Law Dictionary » D » DECLARATION AGAINST INTEREST