Res Gestae Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Res Gestae, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Res Gestae?

(n) Res Guestae is the things that are immediately connected with happening of an event, an action etc including the circumstances, situation, immediate responses , statements etc which has close relevance to the occurrence of that event or action

History and Meaning of Res Gestae

Res Gestae is a Latin term which translates to "things done" or "things that have occurred." In legal terms, Res Gestae refers to a statement or evidence that is admissible in court because it is made spontaneously, without premeditation, and in connection with a particular event. Res Gestae also includes the immediate circumstances and responses to that event.

The concept of Res Gestae can be traced back to ancient Roman law, where it meant evidence of the facts at issue or the res. In modern legal practice, Res Gestae is a traditional exception to the hearsay rule. In other words, hearsay evidence is usually not permissible, but statements made during the Res Gestae are allowed because they are considered reliable and trustworthy.

Examples of Res Gestae

  1. During a car accident, a witness exclaims, "Oh my god, he just ran the red light!" This statement could be considered part of the Res Gestae and admissible in court as evidence.

  2. A victim of a crime is heard saying, "He attacked me with a knife!" again, this statement could be considered part of the Res Gestae and admissible in court.

  3. In a domestic violence case, the victim told officers right after the attack, "He hit me after I found a text from another woman on his phone." This statement could be admissible as part of the Res Gestae exception.

Legal Terms Similar to Res Gestae

  1. Hearsay: Hearsay is any statement made outside of court that is presented in court to prove the truth of the matter asserted.

  2. Corroboration: Corroboration refers to additional evidence that supports the credibility or truthfulness of a statement or witness testimony.

  3. Preservation of Evidence: Preservation of evidence refers to the collection, handling, and storage of evidence in a manner that maintains its integrity and ensures it is admissible in court.