Generally not admissible since it is deemed to be "collateral, in effect irrelevant", can always lead good character evidence, character of complainers: sexual history evidence
Pre-trial approval - previous convictions can be revealed, if the sexual history is revealed so can previous convictions which be very damaging for the accused
Criminal procedure (Scotland) Act 1995, s101(1): "Previousconvictions against the accused shall not, subject to [some exceptions] be laid before the jury..."
Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995, s 166(3): "The previousconvictions against the accused shall not, subject to [some exceptions] be laid before the judge..."
Hearsay is allowed if it is the best evidence available - victims testifies who harmed them on their deathbed, whoever heard the testimony can be used as hearsay evidence
CPA 1995 s259 exceptions apply where the person who made the original statement is dead, physically/mentallyunfit, out with the UK, cannot be found, refuses to give evidence, or refuses to give evidence after being directed by the judge
CPA, s 271(1) - vulnerable witnesses, CPA, s 271(2) - what courts have to take into account, CPA, s 272H - special measure, Vulnerable Witnesses (Criminal Evidence) (Scotland) Act 2019