S7 Episode 14: Should you give a damn about a bad reputation? Character evidence under the Uniform Evidence Acts

This is a recording of session 1 of the 2026 Foley's February Criminal Law series. In this session, Foley's barristers Michael Stanton SC, Heather Anderson, Vincent Vuu and Christina Gómez Vázquez examine character evidence in criminal trials under the Uniform Evidence Acts. They explore its legal foundation, forensic risks and evidentiary limits, drawing on leading cases and practical guidance to assist practitioners in managing character evidence effectively and responsibly. Michael Stanton SC has a broad practice in public and criminal law, with a focus on appellate work and inquiries. He has appeared in the High Court, in conviction and sentence appeals before the Court of Appeal, and in Royal Commissions and inquests.  Heather Anderson has extensive experience in criminal law in Victoria, and Western Australia. Heather holds a current Indictable Crime Certificate and is on Victoria Legal Aid's Preferred Barrister List. She is experienced in all types of matters including family violence, sexual offences, assaults and fraud.  Vincent Vuu accepts briefs to advise and appear in criminal and quasi-criminal matters. He is regularly briefed to appear in contested hearings, committals, bail applications and pleas in all Victorian criminal courts.  Christina Gómez Vázquez accepts briefs in all criminal matters, including quasi-criminal, administrative, regulatory and disciplinary matters, coronial inquests, investigative matters, and appeals, across all metropolitan and regional courts.