Which of the following is an exception to the hearsay rule? an opening statement a preemptory challenge a dying declaration the presentation of direct evidence

## Step 1<br />The hearsay rule is a legal principle that prevents a person who is not testifying from having a statement repeated in court. This rule is in place to ensure that the evidence presented in court is reliable and trustworthy.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. One such exception is a dying declaration. A dying declaration is a statement made by a person who is about to die, asserting the cause of their impending death was due to the actions of another person.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />The rationale behind this exception is that a person who is about to die has no incentive to lie, making their statement reliable and trustworthy.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />The other options provided, such as an opening statement, a preemptory challenge, and the presentation of direct evidence, do not fall under the exceptions to the hearsay rule.