A trial judge is not required to direct the jury on self-defence where the accused's case is a complete denial of the conduct alleged and there is no evidentiary basis connecting self-defence to the specific incidents charged, even where the accused makes general references to self-defence. A s 294 Criminal Procedure Act 1986 direction on delay in complaint may properly be given in respect of non-sexual assault charges that are closely linked with prescribed sexual offences and form part of a continuing pattern of domestic violence.
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