What is the definition of hearsay in a legal context?

The definition of hearsay in a legal context is accurately described as an out-of-court statement offered to prove the truth of the matter asserted. This means that hearsay involves information that is not presented through direct evidence, such as witness testimony given in court, but rather through a statement made outside of the courtroom setting. The significance of hearsay lies in its potential unreliability; since the person who made the statement is not present for cross-examination, the truth of that statement cannot be effectively evaluated within the legal proceedings.

Understanding this definition is crucial in legal contexts, as hearsay can often be inadmissible in court due to concerns over its integrity. The other options provided do not capture the essence of hearsay; statements made in court or by witnesses directly are considered direct evidence or testimony, and personal opinions do not fall under the category of hearsay as they do not pertain to out-of-court statements claiming truth about a fact.