Production of exhibits (Zimbabwe)
The way in which exhibits are produced is set out in Chapter 18 of the Prosecutors Handbook. The comments in this handbook are equally applicable to production of exhibits by the defence. Where there are several defence exhibits the defence lawyer should draw up an itemised list of these exhibits in order to assist the court.
If the size or condition of an exhibit, such as a knife, is material, the prosecutor or the defence lawyer (whoever is producing the exhibit) will ask the magistrate to examine the exhibit and note on record the result of his observations.
All exhibits produced must be properly proved by evidence on oath from witness unless there is statutory authority for handing them in from the bar, that is for the production of them by the prosecutor or by the defence. There are a number of documentary exhibits which are usually produced by handing them in from the bar. These are dealt with below.
All exhibits will be marked as they are produced in court.
