In the Schatschaschwili framework, what does Step 2 compare between 'sol' and 'decisive'?

• A. Whether the testimony was the only evidence versus whether it was highly significant.
• B. Whether the defense was allowed to cross-examine.
• C. Whether the witness was anonymous or not.
• D. Whether the trial occurred in a high court.

Answer: (A)

In this framework, Step 2 focuses on the weight and role of the witness’s testimony by contrasting whether it stands as the sole piece of evidence or as a decisive factor among other evidence. The idea is to ask: is the testimony the only evidence supporting the conclusion (sol), or is it so significant that it could determine the outcome even if other, less important evidence is present (decisive)? This distinction matters because a sole piece of testimony carries different reliability and evidentiary concerns than a testimony that is pivotal in tipping the balance. The other aspects mentioned in the choices—cross-examination, anonymity, or the court level—aren’t what Step 2 compares.