HRS §626-2
When the evidence rules start to apply
This section says the evidence rules take effect on January 1, 1981. They apply to new cases started on or after that date. They also apply to ongoing cases, unless using them would be impractical or unfair, in which case old rules are used.
courts
The statute, as written — Effective date; applicability to future cases and pending cases
This chapter shall take effect on January 1, 1981. The Hawaii Rules of Evidence in section 626-1 shall apply to actions, cases, and proceedings brought on or after January 1, 1981; provided that the rules shall also apply to further procedure in actions, cases, and proceedings then pending, except to the extent that application of the rules would not be feasible, or would work injustice, in which event former evidentiary rules or principles shall apply.
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