"Evidence Law in Queensland" by J. R. S. Forbes is a comprehensive and authoritative text on the law of evidence in Queensland, Australia. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. History and Common Law Foundations: The book begins with a detailed chapter on the history and common law foundations of evidence law in Queensland, providing a clear understanding of the development of these principles over time.
2. Evidence Act 1977-2016: The text provides a thorough commentary on the Evidence Act 1977 (Qld), including its major amendments up to 2016. This section is annotated, offering insights into each section of the Act.
3. Witnesses and Evidence Procedures: It covers topics such as the competence, compellability, cross-examination, and protection of witnesses. It also discusses procedures for taking evidence outside the court, including evidence on commission and kindred procedures.
4. Facilitating Proof of Documents: The book includes sections on facilitating the proof of legislative and official documents, as well as the proof of certain miscellaneous documents, interstate and overseas laws, and records in civil cases.
5. Hearsay and Documentary Evidence: It delves into documentary hearsay, machine copies treated as originals, and simplifying proof. It also discusses discretionary exclusion of admissible evidence, sentencing, and similar facts.
6. Other Queensland Legislation and Commonwealth Evidence Law: The text covers other relevant Queensland legislation and provides an overview of Commonwealth evidence law, ensuring that practitioners are well-informed about the broader legal landscape.

Critical Reception

• Comprehensive Commentary: The book is praised for its comprehensive and up-to-date commentary on the Evidence Act 1977 (Qld). It has been a trusted resource for practitioners and students alike for nearly four decades, with the 14th edition continuing this tradition.
• Authoritative Source: It is noted as an essential addition to any practitioner's library, reflecting its reliability and authority in the field of evidence law in Queensland.
• Recent Amendments: The 14th edition includes commentary on new additions to the Evidence Act, particularly sections 14Q – 14ZG, which address qualified privilege for journalists. This legislative change provides statutory protection for journalists' sources, aligning with public interest privilege at common law.

Plot Summary

The book does not have a narrative plot but rather a structured approach to explaining the law of evidence in Queensland. It is divided into several chapters that systematically cover the historical foundations, key statutes, and procedural aspects of evidence law. Each chapter is designed to provide a clear understanding of the principles and practices governing the admissibility and use of evidence in Queensland courts.

Editions and Updates

The first edition of "Evidence Law in Queensland" was published in 1986, and the text has since undergone 14 editions. This longevity is a testament to its utility and relevance in the legal profession. Each edition has been updated to reflect changes in legislation and case law, ensuring that the text remains current and comprehensive.

In summary, "Evidence Law in Queensland" by J. R. S. Forbes is a seminal work that provides a thorough and authoritative guide to the law of evidence in Queensland. Its comprehensive coverage, historical context, and up-to-date commentary make it an indispensable resource for legal practitioners and students.