54. Previous bad character not relevant except in reply –
154. Previous bad character not relevant, except in reply.- In criminal proceedings the fact that the accused person had a bad character is irrelevant, unless evidence has been given that he has a character in which case it becomes relevant.
Explanation 1. – This section does not apply to cases in which the bad character of any person is itself a fact in issue.
Explanation 2. – A previous conviction is relevant as evidence of bad character.
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1. Subs. by Act 3 of 1891, sec. 6, for section 54.
