Important Legal Definitions
Explore legal terms, clear definitions and practical examples.
Examination-in-Chief (Section 137 IEA / Section 135 BSA)
Evidentiary Rules & Proof Standards
Definition
The initial examination of a witness by the party who calls them to court to testify in support of their pleadings or prosecution case (often tendered via affidavit in civil suits).
Example
The plaintiff in a property suit files their 10-page signed affidavit under Order XVIII Rule 4 CPC, which forms the formal examination-in-chief in the proceedings.