'Examination of witnesses - national proceedings' in document 'Timor-Leste - Criminal Procedure Code'

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RELEVANT SECTIONS OF THE IMPLEMENTING LEGISLATION

CRIMINAL PROCEDURE CODE

PART I
ON THE GENERAL PART

TITLE V
ON PROOF

CHAPTER II
ON EVIDENCE

SECTION IV
WITNESS TESTIMONY

Article 129
Inquiry rules

1. A deposition is a personal act and as such shall under no circumstances be given through a proxy.

2. A witnesses shall not be asked any suggestive or impertinent questions, or any other questions that might undermine the spontaneity and sincerity in which answers are to be given.

3. The enquiry shall deal primarily with the elements required to identify the witness, on his or her family relationships or common interests with the defendant, the aggrieved person or other witnesses, as well as on any other circumstances relevant to the assessment of the credibility of the deposition.

4. If required to take an oath, the witness shall take it and then give the deposition under the terms and within the limits established by law.

5. Where deemed advisable, a witness may be shown any briefs, documents related thereto, tools used for committing the criminal offence or any other items seized.

6. Where the witness presents any item or document that can serve as proof, mention of its presentation is made and such an item or document is to be properly kept or attached to the records.