What must a defendant provide if they plan to introduce an alibi defense during a burglary trial?

In a burglary trial where the defendant plans to introduce an alibi defense, the defendant is required to provide the names and addresses of any alibi witnesses if demanded by the prosecution. This requirement is rooted in the principle that both parties should have a fair opportunity to prepare their cases and to challenge the evidence presented against them. By providing this information, the defendant enables the prosecution to investigate these witnesses and prepare any necessary counterarguments.

This procedure ensures that the trial remains orderly and that both sides are adequately prepared to address all relevant evidence. If the defense fails to provide this information upon request, it may lead to complications, such as the potential exclusion of those witnesses’ testimony, thus adversely affecting the defendant's ability to present their alibi effectively.

This requirement strikes a balance between the defendant's right to present a defense and the prosecution's right to prepare against it, creating a fairer trial process.