What is the test for determining whether to accept or reject a witness’s testimony?

British Columbia, Canada


The following excerpt is from Steinman v. Wholesale Blind Factory and others (No. 2), 2015 BCHRT 3 (CanLII):

I am entitled to accept some, none or all of a witness’ testimony. Where there was a disagreement in the evidence, my findings and reasons are set out. In resolving conflicts in the evidence, and determining whether to accept the evidence of any witness, in whole or in part, I have adopted and applied the tests set out in Bradshaw v. Stenner, 2010 BCSC 1398, para. 186 (citations excluded): Credibility involves an assessment of the trustworthiness of a witness’ testimony based upon the veracity or sincerity of a witness and the accuracy of the evidence that the witness provides. The art of assessment involves examination of various factors such as the ability and opportunity to observe events, the firmness of his [or her] memory, the ability to resist the influence of interest to modify his [or her] recollection, whether the witness’ evidence harmonizes with independent evidence that has been accepted, whether the witness changes his [or her] testimony during direct and cross-examination, whether the witness’ testimony seems unreasonable, impossible, or unlikely, whether a witness has a motive to lie, and the demeanour of a witness generally. Ultimately, the validity of the evidence depends on whether the evidence is consistent with the probabilities affecting the case as a whole and shown to be in existence at the time.

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