Court Opinion

ID: 9635230
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-22 13:43:07.213179+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T09:53:55.825575
License: Public Domain

NIX, Chief Justice,
concurring and dissenting.
I agree with the majority that the statement against interest exception to our hearsay doctrine should not be expanded to encompass declarations against social interest. I also understand the majority’s concern for an expeditious resolution of this matter. In view of the fact that the trial court’s award of custody was based in part on inadmissible evidence, however, I would remand the cause to that court for a reevaluation of the children’s best interests. This decision will affect the entire course of these minors’ lives, as well as the lives of those who are interested in them. It is in my judgment unwise, regardless of how well meaning, for this Court to make that decision relying solely on a cold record. I am therefore constrained to dissent from the majority’s mandate.