AI Overview

The book "Queensland Evidence Law" by David Field is a comprehensive legal text that provides an in-depth exploration of the law of evidence in the Queensland jurisdiction. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

  1. Common Law and Statutory Position: The book synthesizes the common law rules of evidence with the statutory position, as outlined in the Evidence Act 1977 (Qld). This integration provides a logical and systematic approach to understanding the key topics in evidence law.

  2. Introduction to Evidence Law: It serves as an ideal introduction for students to the law of evidence, making it an excellent resource for both students and legal practitioners.

  3. Recent Developments: The book is regularly updated to reflect recent developments in case law and legislation, ensuring that it remains a current and relevant resource.

  4. Accessibility: The text is described as very readable and accessible, making complex legal concepts easier to understand.

Plot Summary

The book does not have a traditional plot in the sense of a narrative story. Instead, it is structured around the key topics and principles of evidence law in Queensland. It covers various aspects of evidence law, including:

  • Admissibility of Evidence: Rules governing what evidence can be presented in court.
  • Relevance and Materiality: Criteria for determining whether evidence is relevant to the case.
  • Hearsay: Rules regarding the admissibility of hearsay evidence.
  • Expert Evidence: Guidelines for the use of expert testimony.
  • Privilege: Rules protecting confidential communications, such as attorney-client privilege.

The book includes tables of cases and statutes, as well as bibliographical references and an index, which facilitate navigation and further research.

Critical Reception

While there is no specific critical reception available in the provided sources, the book's reputation as a reliable and accessible resource for both students and legal practitioners suggests positive reviews. The regular updates and revisions indicate that the book is well-regarded for its timeliness and comprehensiveness in covering the evolving landscape of evidence law in Queensland.

Editions

The book has been published in multiple editions:

  • 5th Edition (2020): This edition is available in EPUB format and has been revised to reflect recent developments in case law and legislation.
  • 6th Edition (2022): This edition is also available and continues to provide a systematic and logical approach to the introduction of each key topic.

Availability

The book is available in various formats, including print and digital versions. It can be accessed online through the National Library of Australia and the State Library of New South Wales, as well as through bookstores like Booktopia.