The text is substantially unchanged
BSA Section 49 is now IEA Section 54
49. Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply.
Old law
BSA §49
49. Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply.
49.In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused has a bad character, is irrelevant, unless evidence has been given that he has a good character, in which case it becomes relevant.
Explanation 1.—This section does not apply to cases in which the bad character of any person is itself a fact in issue.
Explanation 2.—A previous conviction is relevant as evidence of bad character.
Read more: BSA §49Explanation 1.—This section does not apply to cases in which the bad character of any person is itself a fact in issue.
Explanation 2.—A previous conviction is relevant as evidence of bad character.
New law
IEA §54
54. Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply.
54. In criminal proceedings, the fact that the accused person has a bad character, is irrelevant, unless evidence has been given that he has a good character, in which case it becomes relevant.
Explanation 1.––This section does not apply to cases in which the bad character of any person is itself a fact in issue.
Explanation 2. ––A previous conviction is relevant as evidence of bad character.
Read more: IEA §54Explanation 1.––This section does not apply to cases in which the bad character of any person is itself a fact in issue.
Explanation 2. ––A previous conviction is relevant as evidence of bad character.
Cases registered before 1 July 2024 continue under the old code. This is educational information, not legal advice.