Which principle requires full and complete disclosure of the Crown's case to the defence?

• A. R v Carter
• B. Prima Facie
• C. R v Stinchcombe
• D. Voir Dire

Answer: (C)

The principle being tested is the Crown’s duty to disclose the Crown’s case to the defence. R v Stinchcombe established that the Crown must provide full and complete disclosure of all evidence in its possession or control that could assist the defence, including material that could be helpful to the defence or exculpatory information. This duty ensures the accused can make a full answer and defence and helps secure a fair trial, aligning with the justice system’s fairness standards. The obligation applies to documents, witness statements, police notes, and other material relevant to the facts and issues in the case, subject to specific legal privileges or exemptions.

The other options don’t establish this disclosure duty. R v Carter, the term prima facie, and voir dire relate to different legal concepts or procedures, not the overarching obligation for the Crown to disclose its case to the defence.