Definitions, sources and the constitution -- The South African evidentiary system and theories of proof -- The onus of proof -- Circumstantial evidence and inferential reasoning -- Cogency and proof, aspects of the onus of proof, the evidentiary burden, the meaning of prima facie and other toprics relating to proof -- Presumptions -- Relevance and admissibility -- Character -- Similar facts -- Opinion -- The parol evidence rule -- The best evidence rule -- Hearsay -- Previous consistent statements -- The res gestae -- Informal admissions and confessions -- Privilege -- Illegally and improperly obtained evidence -- State privilege and public policy -- Competence and compellability of witnesses -- Documentary evidence -- Real evidence -- Judicial notice -- The rules of trial -- Corroboration and cautionary rules.