BSA Mini Quiz 3

1. Under Section 138 BSA, which statement is correct regarding an accomplice?

An accomplice is not a competent witness.

An accomplice is competent to testify against the accused.

An accomplice's testimony can never be acted upon.

An accomplice must always be corroborated by exactly two independent witnesses.

2. A prosecution has only one eyewitness to an offence. The defence argues that at least two witnesses are legally necessary. Under BSA:

The objection is correct.

Two witnesses are mandatory for every criminal offence.

No particular number of witnesses is required for proof of any fact.

Three witnesses are required where imprisonment exceeds seven years.

3. A witness is unable to communicate verbally. Which is the correct statutory approach?

Such person is automatically incompetent to testify.

The person may give evidence through writing or signs, with interpretation as prescribed by the statute, subject to safeguards.

Only an affidavit can be accepted.

Such evidence is always hearsay.

4. A witness is asked a relevant question, and the truthful answer may tend to expose him to criminal liability. Can he simply refuse to answer?

Yes, absolutely.

No; Section 137 provides that a witness is not excused from answering merely because the answer may criminate him, subject to the statutory protection concerning the use of the compelled answer.

Yes, if he is not the accused.

Yes, unless the Judge personally guarantees immunity.

5. A client communicates confidential information to his advocate for the purpose of obtaining legal advice. The opposing party seeks to compel disclosure. Which provision is most directly concerned?

Section 128

Section 130

Section 132

Section 134

6. A spouse is asked in court to disclose a confidential communication made to them by the other spouse during marriage. Which provision is primarily relevant?

Section 124

Section 126

Section 128

Section 134

7. A lawyer asks a witness during examination-in-chief: “You saw the accused strike the victim with a knife, didn't you?” The opposing side objects that this is a leading question. Which provision directly governs the issue?

Section 141

Section 143

Section 146

Section 149

8. During cross-examination, counsel wishes to confront a witness with a previous statement in writing. Which provision specifically deals with cross-examination as to previous statements in writing?

Section 145

Section 146

Section 148

Section 160

9. A party calls a witness who unexpectedly gives testimony adverse to that party. The party seeks permission to question its own witness in the manner contemplated by cross-examination. Which provision is most directly relevant?

Section 146

Section 150

Section 157

Section 158

10. During trial, the Judge considers that additional clarification is necessary and seeks to put questions to a witness and order production of relevant material. Which provision expressly addresses this power?

Section 141

Section 150

Section 168

Section 169