5.1. GENERAL PRINCIPLE
The reliability of evidence should be determined in light of all of the circumstances/evidence of the particular case. The factors to be considered in weighing evidence are basically a matter of common sense.
The Factors Listed Here And Elsewhere In The Paper Are Not Meant To Be Exhaustive.
5.1.1. Some Factors That May be Considered
- the circumstances surrounding the making of the statement
- any information about the person who made the statement
- how many times the information was passed on before being made known to the witness
- the consistency of the statement with other reliable evidence
- the witness' opportunity to observe the events regarding which she testifies
- the circumstances surrounding the event
- whether there is better evidence available and whether a reason was provided for not producing that evidence
- whether the witness is drawing reasonable inferences or is simply speculating
- whether the evidence is consistent with reliable documentary/ other evidence
- whether the evidence is self-serving
- the circumstances under which a document was created
- the opportunity to cross-examine the author of a document
- whether some of the witness' evidence has been found not to be credible
- whether the witness is disinterested in the result
- whether the witness is biased
- the witness' qualifications and knowledge of the subject regarding which she testifies
- attitude and demeanour of a witness
- knowledge and expertise of author of a document and the date of the document.