Criminal Justice Act 1967: Key legislation governing written statements in criminal proceedings, particularly Section 9 which establishes requirements for admissibility of written statements as evidence
Criminal Procedure Rules 2020: Contains Part 16 which specifically deals with witness statements, setting out formal requirements and procedures for use in criminal proceedings
Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE): Provides fundamental framework for police powers and procedures, including established codes of practice for obtaining evidence
Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999: Contains special provisions for vulnerable witnesses and specific requirements for youth witnesses in criminal proceedings
Criminal Justice Act 2003: Contains key provisions regarding hearsay evidence and rules about admissibility of evidence in criminal proceedings
Data Protection Act 2018 & UK GDPR: Establishes requirements for handling personal data and privacy considerations in evidence collection and storage
Human Rights Act 1998: Ensures compliance with fundamental rights, particularly Article 6 (right to fair trial) and consideration of witness rights
Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000: Governs certain types of evidence gathering and investigatory powers in criminal proceedings
Magistrates' Courts Act 1980: Establishes procedures for use of witness statements in magistrates' courts
Home Office Guidelines: Official governmental guidance on proper procedures for taking and handling witness statements
Crown Prosecution Service Guidelines: Prosecutorial guidance on requirements and best practices for witness statements in criminal proceedings
College of Policing Guidelines: Professional standards and practical guidance for police officers in taking and processing witness statements
