John & Anor v Stafford & Ors

Burden of proof in claims for declaration of title to land and claims of trespass. Supreme Court of Sierra Leone, 13 July 1976

This case discussed a number of property-related points of law: when seeking a declaration of title, the land to which it relates must be proved with certainty; claims for trespass have a lower burden of proof, and proving clear and exclusive possession of land is sufficient. The Supreme Court also interpreted the meaning of “person interested” in the Evidence (Documentary) Act (Cap 26) 1926 and reminded the Court of Appeal of the importance of setting out the principal reasons for its decision in its judgment.

For a full text version of the judgment see John v Stafford

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