Evidence of bad character / J R Spencer.

Oxford : Hart Publishing, 2006.

26046

Criminal Justice Act, -- 2003.

Evidence (law)

1. Introduction

2. Definition of 'bad character'

3. The bad character of non-defendants

4. Evidence of the defendant's bad character

5. Practical issues.

The rule excluding evidence of the defendant's general bad character and disposition to commit the offence has been described as one of the most hallowed rules of evidence. In reality, it is not particularly ancient, and in recent years it has been increasingly attacked. On technical grounds, the body of law surrounding it has been criticised as over-complicated and inconsistent, and more radical critics have condemned it as unduly favourable to the guilty. In response to this, it was completely recast in Part II of the Criminal Justice Act 2003. This book offers the first thorough analysis of the new provisions.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

1841136484

xxx, 254 p.