The law of evidence in Northern Ireland closely resembles that in England. Like English law, it has been updated more extensively than that applicable in the Republic of Ireland. Either party to legal proceedings can compel a witness to attend court by witness summons. Witnesses may be compelled to produce any document in their possession […]
Cross-examination aims to put forward the opponent’s case, elicit facts favorable to the other side, and undermine credibility. The defense’s case should be put to the other side’s witnesses to provide them with the opportunity to deny it. If this isn’t done, it may be excluded or the witness may be recalled. The purpose is […]
The general hearsay rule at common law states that a person can only give evidence of matters they saw or observed personally. A statement made by another person outside of Court is generally not admissible as evidence of its content’s truth. However, such statements can often be relevant for other reasons. In many instances, statements […]
Hearsay Rule The general hearsay rule at common law provides that a person only give evidence of matters he saw or observed of his own personal knowledge. The Courts emphasised the ability to draw inferences as to the honesty and reliability of witnesses in relation to what he had perceived. A statement made by another […]