Search Legislation

Explanatory Memorandum to Criminal Justice (Evidence) (Northern Ireland) Order 2004

Repeals

Part IV:  Other Evidence
Evidence by video recording

65.Article 39 permits a video recording of an interview with a witness (other than the defendant), or a part of such a recording, to be admitted as evidence in chief of the witness in a wider range of circumstances than is presently the case.

66.The court can authorise this provided that:

  • The person claims to be a witness to the offence (or part of it) or to events closely connected to the offence;

  • The video recording of the statement was made at a time when events were fresh in the witness’s memory; and

  • The alleged offence can only be tried in a Crown Court or is an either-way offence prescribed by Order of the Secretary of State.

67.If these requirements are satisfied the court may admit the recording provided that:

  • The witness’s recollection of events is likely to be significantly better at the time he gave the recorded account than by the time of the trial; and

  • It is in the interests of justice to admit it.

Back to top

Options/Help

Print Options

Close

More Resources

Access essential accompanying documents and information for this legislation item from this tab. Dependent on the legislation item being viewed this may include:

  • the original print PDF of the as enacted version that was used for the print copy
  • lists of changes made by and/or affecting this legislation item
  • confers power and blanket amendment details
  • all formats of all associated documents
  • correction slips
  • links to related legislation and further information resources