What remedies are available to a judge who finds counsel in breach of the principle of leading a party to lead contradictory evidence?

Alberta, Canada


The following excerpt is from SSG v SKG, 2022 ABQB 130 (CanLII):

A breach of that principle might occur either because counsel chose to do it deliberately or inadvertently through ignorance of its content and purpose. In either case, if the judge does invoke the principle, the second question affords various answers to address the breach. These lie within the discretion of the judge and should be the subject of representations by counsel. One possibility is to recall the witness for cross-examination (or further cross-examination). The judge has no obligation to suggest this remedy, or to recall the witness, although such a suggestion is commonly made. A second is to admit some or all of the evidence tendered in breach and thereafter ensure that the trier of fact is specifically instructed that in assessing the whole of the evidence careful consideration should be given to the probative value of any testimony on both sides that is concerned with the breach. A third option is to enforce the principle in Browne v. Dunn by disallowing the party in breach to lead contradictory evidence. [footnotes omitted]

Other Questions


What is the basis for the principle that a person who is not a party to the same type of accommodation as a party is entitled to a similar accommodation? (Alberta, Canada)
Does a finding of a constructive trust as a remedy retroactively impose a trustee - beneficiary relationship between parties? (Alberta, Canada)
Is there any case law where a trial judge made a finding of fact based on a synthesis of ordinary and expert evidence? (Alberta, Canada)
Does the principle of res judicata apply when one party has brought a new cause of action against the same party? (Alberta, Canada)
Is a party who is not an applicant in a restrictive covenant action against a party that is not a party to the restrictive covenant? (Alberta, Canada)
What are the implications of a court finding that specific performance is not an available remedy? (Alberta, Canada)
What is the test for overturning findings of fact of the trial judge on appeal? (Alberta, Canada)
Can a party to a cause influence the mind of a judge in a Mercantile Arbitration? (Alberta, Canada)
Is a court bound by law to award costs in favour of the successful party against the unsuccessful party? (Alberta, Canada)
If there is no clear agency between the parties, can the parties be considered fiduciary? (Alberta, Canada)
X



Alexi white


"The most advanced legal research software ever built."

Trusted by top litigators from across North America.