Landmark Cases in the Law of Evidence

The evolution of the law of evidence has been shaped significantly by landmark cases that have set enduring precedents. One such case is Woolmington v. DPP (1935), a cornerstone in criminal law that established the presumption of innocence as a fundamental principle. In this case, the House of Lords famously declared that it is the duty of the prosecution to prove the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt, a principle that remains integral to legal systems worldwide. This case not only clarified the burden of proof but also reinforced the rights of the accused, ensuring fairness in judicial proceedings.

Another pivotal case is R v. Turner (1975), which addressed the admissibility of expert evidence in court. This case underscored the importance of ensuring that expert testimony is both relevant and necessary for the understanding of the case by the jury or judge. The ruling emphasized that expert evidence should not encroach upon the jury's role as the ultimate fact-finder, thereby balancing the need for specialized knowledge with the preservation of judicial impartiality. This decision continues to influence how courts evaluate and admit expert testimony, safeguarding the integrity of legal processes.