In civil cases character to prove conduct imputed, irrelevant

In civil cases, evidence that a person’s character makes it likely or unlikely they acted a certain way is generally irrelevant. Such character evidence is admissible only when the character itself is shown by other facts that are already relevant. So you cannot prove conduct in a civil dispute merely by attacking or praising someone’s character.

Priya sues Arjun for breaching a contract. She calls neighbours to testify that Arjun is dishonest to make breach seem likely. The court will not admit those general character statements to prove the breach unless the dishonesty appears from other facts that are already relevant to the case.