Similar Facts Evidence

General Introduction There are facts which are generally irrelevant, but which may be proved in exceptional cases. Grouped together under this are the four topics viz: similar facts evidence, character evidence, opinion evidence and hearsay. These topics are sometimes described as the Four Rules of Exclusion in the Law of Evidence, evidence of such matters is generally irrelevant and inadmissible, however, there are exceptions in each case where this type of evidence is admissible. Such exceptions are either provided for in the Evidence Act or are principles of the common law, hence are applicable under sections 4 & 5 of the Evidence Act.