Evidence notes Flashcards

(134 cards)

1
Q

What is the rule in Browne v Dunn?

A

A cross-examiner must put to a witness any specific aspects of their case that contradict the witness’s testimony

If a party intends to lead evidence inconsistent with a witness’s statement, the witness must be given the opportunity to explain or comment on it.

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2
Q

What is the primary rationale for the rule in Browne v Dunn?

A
  • Procedural fairness to the witness
  • Prevents trial by ambush for the opposing party
  • Ensures the court has a complete record of the witness’s response

It allows witnesses to defend themselves against attacks on their credibility.

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3
Q

What are the exceptions to the rule in Browne v Dunn?

A
  • Notice in other ways
  • Lack of necessity and delicacy
  • Challenges to general credit

These exceptions allow for flexibility in cross-examination under certain circumstances.

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4
Q

What are the consequences of not complying with Browne v Dunn?

A
  • Weight of Evidence may be reduced
  • Inference Drawing may be limited
  • Recalling the Witness may be allowed
  • Exclusion of Evidence may occur

Non-compliance can lead to significant impacts on the trial’s fairness.

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5
Q

When can documents be used to refresh memory?

A
  • Contemporaneity
  • Verification of Accuracy
  • Present Recollection Revived
  • Past Recollection Recorded

Documents must meet specific conditions related to timing and accuracy to be used effectively.

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6
Q

Under Section 32 of the Evidence Act (Cth), what is prohibited regarding documents?

A

A witness cannot use a document to revive their memory about a fact or opinion while testifying unless the court gives leave

The court considers necessity and contemporaneity when deciding on this matter.

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7
Q

What is the rule against hearsay?

A

Evidence of a previous representation made by a person is not admissible to prove the existence of a fact

This rule is outlined in Evidence Act (Cth) Section 59.

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8
Q

What is the primary rationale of the rule against hearsay?

A

The maker of the original statement was not subject to cross-examination

This absence diminishes the value of the statement as it cannot be tested for reliability.

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9
Q

What are the primary exceptions to the rule against hearsay?

A
  • Admitted for a non-hearsay purpose
  • First-hand hearsay
  • Business Records (Section 69)
  • Admissions (Section 81)
  • Contemporaneous Statements (Section 66A)

These exceptions allow certain statements to be admissible under specific conditions.

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10
Q

What are the requirements for expert evidence in Queensland?

A
  • Duty to the Court
  • Independence
  • Code of Conduct
  • Evidence-in-Chief by Report

Experts must adhere to strict guidelines to ensure their evidence is reliable and impartial.

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11
Q

What are the primary classifications of evidence?

A
  • Testimony
  • Documents
  • Real evidence

These classifications help in understanding the types of evidence presented in court.

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12
Q

What are the requirements of expert evidence in the Federal Court?

A
  • Specialised Knowledge
  • Basis of Opinion
  • Mandatory Pre-retention Requirements
  • Requirements for the Expert Report

These requirements ensure that expert evidence is credible and follows court guidelines.

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13
Q

When can a co-accused’s out of court statement be admissible for its truth?

A
  • Admissions and the ‘Third Party’ Limitation
  • Admissions Made in Furtherance of a Common Purpose
  • Adoption by Conduct or Silence
  • Non-Hearsay Purpose and Section 60

Specific circumstances allow for the admission of such statements against co-defendants.

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14
Q

What is judicial notice?

A

A rule of evidence allowing a court to accept certain facts as true without formal proof

It serves as a rule of convenience to streamline proceedings by acknowledging indisputable or easily verified facts.

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15
Q

According to the Evidence Act 1995 (Cth), judicial notice applies to which primary categories?

A
  • Matters of Law
  • Matters of Common Knowledge
  • Matters of Official Record and State

These categories help courts recognize facts without requiring formal evidence.

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16
Q

What are adjudicative facts?

A

Facts relating to the specific parties and the particular dispute being litigated

They differ from legislative facts, which assist in determining law or policy.

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17
Q

What is the standard of proof in criminal proceedings?

A

Beyond reasonable doubt

This standard is codified in Section 141 of the Evidence Act 1995 (Cth).

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18
Q

What is the legal burden of proof?

A

The obligation of a party to prove a fact in issue

It determines who is responsible for establishing a fact.

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19
Q

What is circumstantial evidence?

A

Any fact from which a judge or jury may infer the existence of a fact in issue

It requires an additional logical step to reach a conclusion, unlike direct testimony.

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20
Q

What is the best evidence rule?

A
  • Primary Evidence: Original item itself
  • Secondary Evidence: One step removed from the original

The common law original document rule has been abolished in the Evidence Act.

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21
Q

What is opinion evidence?

A

Evidence of a witness’s belief, inference, or conclusion regarding a fact

Generally not admissible to prove the existence of the fact, with some exceptions.

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22
Q

What is a subpoena?

A

A formal written order issued by a court compelling a person to assist in a legal proceeding

Subpoenas can require attendance to give evidence or to produce documents.

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23
Q

When can a court exclude relevant evidence?

A

If its probative value is substantially outweighed by the danger of being unfairly prejudicial, misleading, or causing undue waste of time

This is outlined in Section 135 of the Evidence Act 1995 (Cth).

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24
Q

What is an affidavit?

A

Written evidence of an individual made under oath or affirmation

It serves as a formal declaration of facts.

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25
What is the **Briginshaw standard**?
Clarifies that the degree of satisfaction required to find a fact proved is not static ## Footnote It mandates consideration of the nature of the cause of action and the gravity of the matters alleged.
26
What is the **difference between evidentiary burden and legal burden**?
* Legal burden: Obligation to prove a fact * Evidentiary burden: Obligation to adduce enough evidence for consideration ## Footnote The legal burden determines responsibility, while the evidentiary burden relates to the sufficiency of evidence.
27
When can **burdens shift**?
When a party establishes a prima facie case, the burden shifts to the other party to contradict the evidence ## Footnote If the plaintiff proves their case, the legal burden shifts to the defendant.
28
What is the **standard of proof in civil matters** in the Federal Court?
Balance of probabilities ## Footnote This is codified in Section 140 of the Evidence Act 1995 (Cth).
29
What is the **standard of proof in raising a defense in a criminal matter**?
On the balance of probabilities ## Footnote This standard applies to the defendant's case as per Section 141 of the Evidence Act.
30
What is an **admission**?
A previous representation made by a party to a proceeding that is adverse to their interest ## Footnote It includes express statements and representations inferred from conduct.
31
When are **admissions** admissible?
When they meet the criteria of being first-hand hearsay ## Footnote Sections 81 and 77 outline the primary exception to the hearsay rule.
32
What is the **burden of proof**?
The obligation of a party to prove a fact in issue ## Footnote It determines who must establish the facts in a legal proceeding.
33
What is the **standard of proof in disciplinary hearings**?
Civil standard of proof ## Footnote The gravity of the matters alleged is a relevant factor in reaching the necessary level of satisfaction.
34
When can **prejudicial evidence** be excluded?
If its probative value is substantially outweighed by the danger of unfair prejudice ## Footnote This is specified in Section 135 of the Evidence Act 1995 (Cth).
35
What is the **standard of proof on fact finding in sentencing**?
The rules of evidence do not automatically apply; the court has flexibility unless directed otherwise ## Footnote Courts often reach results similar to ordinary rules even without formal direction.
36
The court finds the case of a **defendant** proved if it is satisfied that the case has been proved on the _______.
balance of probabilities ## Footnote This standard is used in civil proceedings.
37
What is the difference between **standard of proof** and **legal burden of proof**?
* Legal burden: determines who establishes a fact * Standard of proof: determines how convinced the court must be ## Footnote Failure to meet the standard means the party bearing the legal burden has failed to prove their case.
38
When is **hearsay** admissible?
* Relevant for a not hearsay purpose: s.60 * Business Records: personal knowledge documents * Tags, Labels, and Writing: information on business tags * Electronic Communications: sender and time details * Contemporaneous Statements: health or state of mind * Reputation: evidence of age or family history * Interlocutory Proceedings: source evidence provided * Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Laws: traditional laws representations ## Footnote These exceptions allow hearsay to be used in specific contexts.
39
What is a **leading question**?
A question that suggests a particular answer or assumes a disputed fact ## Footnote Leading questions can influence the witness's response.
40
Provide an example of a **leading question** and a **non-leading question**.
* Leading: "You saw the defendant leave the nightclub shortly before the incident, correct?" * Non-leading: "Where was the defendant when you last saw him that night?" ## Footnote Leading questions suggest answers, while non-leading questions do not.
41
When can **leading questions** be asked?
During XXN ## Footnote XXN refers to cross-examination.
42
When can a **Federal Court** exclude relevant evidence?
* s.138: improperly obtained evidence * s.135: probative value outweighed * s.119: privilege ## Footnote These sections outline conditions for excluding evidence.
43
What is the rule regarding XXN on **prior inconsistent statements**?
s.43: Party may cross-examine a witness about a prior inconsistent statement ## Footnote This allows for challenging the credibility of a witness.
44
What is the purpose of **cross-examination**?
To estimate the value of testimony given during examination in chief ## Footnote It allows the opposing party to test the witness's assertions.
45
When can a **prior consistent statement** be used?
* To rebut a prior inconsistent statement * To rebut suggestions of fabrication ## Footnote Requires leave of the court.
46
What is the rule in **Jones v Dunkel**?
Unexplained failure to give evidence may lead to an inference that the uncalled evidence would not assist that party's case ## Footnote This rule addresses the consequences of not presenting available evidence.
47
What are the requirements of the rule in **Jones v Dunkel**? (B-CLEN)
* Burden of proof on the party * Control of the witness/evidence * Likely knowledge of relevant facts * Evidence would elucidate the issue * Natural witness for the party to call ## Footnote These factors determine the applicability of the rule.
48
When does the rule **Jones v Dunkel** not apply? (PECUB)
* Privilege * Explanation for absence * Cumulative evidence only * Unavailable witness * Both parties equally able to call the witness ## Footnote These exceptions limit the rule's application.
49
When can you **impeach your own witness**?
With leave of the court, question as though cross-examining them ## Footnote This is generally prohibited at common law.
50
What is the **balance of probabilities**?
The primary standard of proof in civil proceedings ## Footnote It requires the trier of fact to find a fact more probable than its non-existence.
51
What is **beyond reasonable doubt**?
s.141: the standard of proof in criminal matters ## Footnote This standard is higher than the balance of probabilities.
52
What are **improper questions** during cross-examination?
* Misleading or confusing * Unduly annoying or oppressive * Belittling or insulting * Based on stereotypes ## Footnote These types of questions are prohibited to maintain fairness.
53
Why can’t you ask a **leading question** during Examination in Chief?
It suggests a particular answer or assumes a disputed fact ## Footnote This ban ensures reliable testimony.
54
When can you cross-examine a witness on **credit**?
When evidence could substantially affect the assessment of the witness's credibility ## Footnote Specific exceptions allow for this type of questioning.
55
What are the **means of proof**?
* Testimony * Hearsay * Documents * Real evidence * Circumstantial evidence ## Footnote These categories establish facts in a proceeding.
56
When can you **lead evidence in rebuttal**?
* Substance was put during cross-examination * Witness denied the substance * Court grants leave ## Footnote Specific conditions apply for rebuttal evidence.
57
What are the types of evidence to prove the contents of a **tendered document**?
* Tendering the document itself * Reproductions or transcripts * Affidavit or written statement for public documents ## Footnote The best evidence rule has been abolished by the Evidence Act.
58
What is the **finality rule**?
The cross-examiner is bound by the witness's response ## Footnote This prevents distractions from the main issues.
59
What are the **exceptions to the finality rule**?
* Bias, Interest, or Corruption * Prior Convictions * Prior Inconsistent Statements * Inability to Recall or Perceive * Lack of Veracity ## Footnote These exceptions allow for leading extrinsic evidence.
60
What is an **adverse witness**?
A witness who fails to support the case of the party who called them ## Footnote Under the Evidence Act, they are considered unfavourable.
61
What must a party do to admit a **document as evidence**?
Tender the document itself or use statutory methods for copies ## Footnote Identification may be used during questioning.
62
Are **business records** admissible as hearsay?
Yes, under Section 69 as a specific exception ## Footnote This allows for the use of business records in court.
63
When can a document be used for the **truth of its contents**?
* Admission for a non-hearsay purpose: s60 * First hand hearsay: s63 * Business records: s69 * Admissions: s81 * Interlocutory proceedings: s75 ## Footnote These sections outline when documents can be used for their content.
64
What is **competence and compellability**?
* Competence: legally allowed to give evidence * Compellability: legally forced to give evidence ## Footnote These terms define a witness's ability to testify.
65
Which matters does the **Evidence Act 1995 (Cth)** apply to?
All proceedings in a federal court ## Footnote Includes the High Court and any court created by Parliament.
66
What are the consequences of failing to **object to evidence**?
Waived right to later complain about admissibility ## Footnote Inadmissible evidence may still be used if not challenged.
67
When can a witness be asked a question to the **ultimate issue**?
s.80: opinion evidence is not inadmissible due to it concerning a fact in issue ## Footnote Must satisfy the general opinion rule.
68
What should a **barrister** do if they suspect their client is engaged in **illegal conduct**?
Withdraw from representing the client ## Footnote A barrister must act in accordance with the law and ethical guidelines.
69
When can a **barrister withdraw** from representing a client?
When there is a conflict of interest or illegal conduct ## Footnote Withdrawal must comply with ethical rules and legal obligations.
70
When is it appropriate for a **barrister** to **terminate their retainer** with a client?
If the client engages in illegal conduct or breaches the agreement ## Footnote Termination must follow ethical guidelines.
71
What is a **barrister's duty** when dealing with **unrepresented parties**?
To ensure fairness and not take advantage of their lack of legal knowledge ## Footnote This duty is crucial for maintaining ethical standards.
72
What are the **ethical rules** for a barrister dealing with **vulnerable witnesses**?
* Provide appropriate support * Avoid leading questions * Ensure understanding of the process ## Footnote Vulnerable witnesses require special consideration to ensure justice.
73
Under what circumstances can a **barrister accept** or continue to act in a matter where there is a **potential conflict of interest**?
If informed consent is obtained from all affected parties ## Footnote Transparency and consent are key to managing conflicts.
74
What are the **ethical rules** for a barrister when **negotiating settlements** on behalf of their client?
* Act in the best interest of the client * Ensure client understands the terms * Avoid coercion ## Footnote Ethical negotiation practices are essential for fair outcomes.
75
What is a **freezing order**?
A court order to prevent a party from disposing of assets ## Footnote It is often used to secure assets pending litigation.
76
When can a **freezing order** be made?
When there is a risk of asset dissipation before judgment ## Footnote Courts assess the likelihood of asset loss.
77
What is the **monetary jurisdiction** of **Magistrates and District Court**?
Magistrates: up to $150,000; District Court: up to $750,000 ## Footnote These limits define the financial scope of cases each court can hear.
78
What factors does a court consider in **delay**?
* Length of delay * Reasons for delay * Prejudice to parties ## Footnote Delay can impact the fairness and efficiency of proceedings.
79
When can **pleadings and particulars** be **struck out**?
If they are irrelevant, scandalous, or vexatious ## Footnote Courts maintain the integrity of pleadings to ensure proper legal processes.
80
When can **summary judgment** be granted?
When there is no genuine issue for trial ## Footnote This expedites cases where the outcome is clear.
81
When can **default judgment** be granted?
When a defendant fails to respond to a claim ## Footnote Default judgment allows the plaintiff to win without a trial.
82
When can amendments to **pleadings** be made without **leave**?
Before the close of pleadings ## Footnote Timely amendments help clarify issues in dispute.
83
When is **leave** needed to amend **pleadings**?
After the close of pleadings or if the amendment is substantial ## Footnote Courts assess the necessity and impact of amendments.
84
When are **particulars** needed?
When pleadings are vague or lack detail ## Footnote Particulars help clarify the claims being made.
85
What are the **procedural requirements** for **expert evidence**?
* Must be relevant * Must be based on specialized knowledge * Must comply with court rules ## Footnote Expert evidence must meet strict standards for admissibility.
86
When will a court grant a **dismissal for want of prosecution**?
If a party fails to progress their case in a timely manner ## Footnote This ensures that cases are resolved efficiently.
87
What are **inconsistent allegations/claims**?
Claims that contradict each other within the same case ## Footnote Inconsistencies can undermine a party's credibility.
88
Can **inconsistent allegations/claims** be pleaded in the **Federal Court**?
Yes, but they must be clearly identified ## Footnote Clarity helps the court understand the issues at hand.
89
What are **search orders**?
Court orders allowing a party to search for and seize evidence ## Footnote These are typically used to prevent destruction of evidence.
90
When can **search orders** be made?
When there is a risk of evidence being destroyed ## Footnote Courts assess the urgency and necessity of such orders.
91
What is an **interlocutory application**?
A request for a court order made before the final resolution of a case ## Footnote These applications address urgent matters that arise during proceedings.
92
What are the **requirements** of an **interlocutory application**?
* Must show urgency * Must provide supporting evidence * Must comply with court rules ## Footnote Properly structured applications facilitate timely court decisions.
93
Can an **interlocutory application** be heard **ex parte**?
Yes, if there is a risk of harm to the applicant ## Footnote Ex parte hearings allow for urgent matters to be addressed without the other party present.
94
What are **particulars**?
Detailed information that clarifies pleadings ## Footnote They help ensure that all parties understand the claims being made.
95
When can **pleadings** be amended in the **Federal Court**?
With leave of the court or before the close of pleadings ## Footnote Amendments must comply with procedural rules.
96
What are the **requirements** of **denials** and **non-admissions**?
* Must be clear * Must address specific allegations ## Footnote Properly articulated denials help clarify the issues in dispute.
97
What is the procedure for the **Supervised Case List**?
Cases are monitored for compliance with timelines and requirements ## Footnote This ensures efficient case management.
98
When can the **Federal Court grant summary judgment**?
When there is no genuine issue of material fact ## Footnote Summary judgment expedites the resolution of clear cases.
99
What is the procedure for the **Commercial List**?
Specialized procedures for commercial disputes, including expedited hearings ## Footnote This list is designed for efficiency in commercial matters.
100
What matters must be **expressly pleaded** in the **Federal Court**?
* Claims for damages * Specific defenses * Counterclaims ## Footnote Clear pleading is essential for the court's understanding of the case.
101
What is a **‘step’**?
An action taken in the course of legal proceedings ## Footnote Steps are crucial for progressing a case through the court system.
102
What are the **four ways** to start a process in **Queensland**?
* Originating application * Statement of claim * Notice of appeal * Application for a review ## Footnote Each method serves different legal purposes.
103
How are **proceedings commenced** in the **Federal Court**?
By filing an originating process ## Footnote This initiates the legal action in the court.
104
Does the **Federal Court** have a **duty of disclosure**?
Yes, parties must disclose relevant information ## Footnote This duty promotes transparency and fairness in proceedings.
105
What are the **consequences** of an **improper denial**?
Potential sanctions or adverse inferences by the court ## Footnote Courts expect honest and clear responses to allegations.
106
What are the **requirements** of an **affidavit**?
* Must be sworn or affirmed * Must contain relevant facts * Must comply with court rules ## Footnote Affidavits serve as written evidence in court.
107
Who bears the **onus** on the **supervised case list**?
The applicant ## Footnote The applicant must demonstrate compliance with requirements.
108
Who bears the **onus** on the **Commercial list**?
The party making the claim ## Footnote This ensures accountability in commercial disputes.
109
What matters must be pleaded for a **debt or liquidated demand**?
* Amount owed * Basis for the debt ## Footnote Clear pleading is essential for enforcing financial claims.
110
What are the **consequences** of not complying with the **rules or orders**?
Possible dismissal of the case or sanctions ## Footnote Compliance is critical for maintaining the integrity of the legal process.
111
What is an **originating process**?
A document that initiates legal proceedings ## Footnote It outlines the claims being made in court.
112
Who can call **experts**? And how can they call them?
Any party can call experts, typically through a subpoena or notice ## Footnote Experts provide specialized knowledge relevant to the case.
113
What is a **default judgment**?
A judgment granted when a defendant fails to respond ## Footnote It allows the plaintiff to win without a trial.
114
What are **directions**?
Orders issued by the court to guide the conduct of proceedings ## Footnote Directions help manage the progress of a case.
115
What is the **rule in Cape York Airlines**?
A legal principle regarding the liability of carriers ## Footnote This rule addresses specific issues in aviation law.
116
A dispute is seeking damages for **$650,000**; can the **Supreme Court** hear it?
Yes, as it exceeds the monetary jurisdiction of lower courts ## Footnote The Supreme Court handles significant claims.
117
When is **leave** needed to continue proceedings after **delay**?
When the delay is significant and affects the case's progress ## Footnote Courts assess the reasons for delay before granting leave.
118
What is the **duty of disclosure**?
The obligation to reveal all relevant information to the court ## Footnote This duty ensures transparency in legal proceedings.
119
What does not need to be **disclosed**?
Privileged communications or irrelevant information ## Footnote Protecting certain communications is essential for confidentiality.
120
Can **property** be inspected or detained in the **UCPR**?
Yes, under certain conditions set by the court ## Footnote This allows for the preservation of evidence.
121
There is a dispute regarding the interpretation of a **contractual term** under a standard **REIQ property contract**, what is the appropriate **originating process**?
Originating application ## Footnote This process is used for disputes over contractual interpretations.
122
What are the means in which the **documents** are disclosed in the **Federal Court**?
* Discovery * Inspection * Production ## Footnote Proper disclosure is vital for fair proceedings.
123
What are the **requirements** of **pleadings**?
* Clarity * Relevance * Compliance with rules ## Footnote Well-structured pleadings facilitate understanding and resolution.
124
What is a **subpoena**?
A legal document ordering a person to attend court or produce evidence ## Footnote Subpoenas are essential for gathering evidence.
125
When are **pleadings** needed?
In all civil proceedings to outline claims and defenses ## Footnote Pleadings establish the framework for the case.
126
Does a **non-party** have a **duty to disclose**?
Generally no, unless specified by the court ## Footnote Non-parties typically are not bound by disclosure obligations.
127
What are the **requirements** for a **claim**?
* Legal basis * Factual basis * Compliance with procedural rules ## Footnote Claims must be well-founded to proceed in court.
128
What are the **requirements** for an **application**?
* Clear grounds * Supporting evidence * Compliance with court rules ## Footnote Applications must be substantiated to be considered.
129
When is an **originating application** not needed?
When the matter can be resolved through other processes ## Footnote Courts prefer efficient resolution methods.
130
When can an **originating process** be **set aside**?
If it does not comply with legal requirements ## Footnote Setting aside ensures adherence to procedural standards.
131
What are the **consequences** of a failure to give **particulars**?
Potential dismissal of the case or inability to proceed ## Footnote Particulars are crucial for clarity in legal proceedings.
132
What is an **implied non-admission**?
A response that does not explicitly admit or deny an allegation ## Footnote This allows for strategic legal positioning.
133
When are **affidavits** used?
To provide sworn evidence in court proceedings ## Footnote Affidavits are critical for establishing facts.
134
When is **oral evidence** heard?
During trials or hearings where witness testimony is required ## Footnote Oral evidence allows for direct examination and cross-examination.