A witness could provide testimonial evidence capable of swaying a jury toward a guilty verdict. However, not all witnesses are credible and a thorough cross-examination might lead to a case falling apart. Juries may see serious problems with a particular witness’ recollection of events, leading to the collapse of a criminal case. A Connecticut attorney might examine a witness so well that the witness’ testimony works on behalf of his or her client.
Examining a witness
Both the prosecution and the defense may examine and cross-examine a witness. On the stand, a witness is asked to provide his or her version of events. While a witness may believe perceptions to be accurate, there could be enormous problems.
On cross-examination, a defense attorney could question the details about what someone saw or heard. Perhaps the light was too low or the distance too far to make an accurate identification. A defense attorney may question whether someone could remember details from a conversation that took place several feet away on a crowded train.
If the jury feels that the testimony lacks credibility, the witness might not sway decisions too well. The jury also considers other evidence. Still, it may take one juror to cause a hung jury if a witness or other evidence fails to prove convincing. A hung jury could lead to a new trial or even a possible decision to no longer try the case.
Issues with witnesses
Sometimes the defense may choose not to cross-examine a witness at all. Perhaps the witness’ testimony presented nothing of real value. Ultimately, if the defense attorney feels cross-examination might be worthless or unnecessary, it does not occur. Clients could ask their counsel for clarification as to why he or she chose not to perform the cross-examination.
Sometimes the decision not to cross-examine proves self-evident. For example, a witness may appear to forget or details or outright admit to lying on the stand. Witnesses who provide false testimony may face serious criminal charges for their behavior. Perjury comes with potential repercussions.
Criminal law addresses witness testimony and other aspects of trials to ensure that all parties’ rights are protected. Defendants with questions about their legal situation might wish to confer with an attorney.
