(a) Reputation or opinion. In all cases in which evidence of character or a trait of character of a person is admissible, proof may be made by testimony as to reputation or by testimony in the form of an opinion. On cross-examination, inquiry is allowable into relevant specific instances of conduct.

(b) Specific instances of conduct. In cases in which character or a trait of character of a person is essential element of a charge, claim, or defense, proof may also be made of specific instances of that person's conduct.

ADVISORY COMMITTEE NOTE

This rule is the federal rule, verbatim, and is consistent with Rule 46, Utah Rules of Evidence (1971) and the decisions of the Utah Supreme Court. Cf. State v. Howard, 544 P.2d 466 (Utah 1975). Rule 47, Utah Rules of Evidence (1971) appears to be covered by subdivisions (a)(1) or (b) of Rule 404.