A trial judge's finding that a document is genuine, based on careful analysis of competing expert handwriting evidence, will not be disturbed on appeal absent demonstrated error in reasoning. Where a claim is made against a deceased estate based on oral conversations, the caution required in scrutinising the claimant's evidence is matched by the caution required in scrutinising an allegation of forgery, and the trial judge must determine the issue by reference to the balance of probabilities. Criminal convictions for dishonesty are relevant to credibility but may have limited significance where the trial judge is impressed by the witness's demeanour.
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