mardi 11 février 2014

The Components Of Witness Tampering

By Eula Nichols


The legal term witness tampering is largely defined as an harm or threat directed toward a witness in an attempt to influence the testimony of the person who is testifying in a case. Witness testimony is often employed by both defendants and plaintiffs. It is used in civil and criminal cases, and plays a major role in both.

Interfering with these testimonies is largely considered a major offense. It is known to disrupt civil cases and criminal prosecutions. In an attempt to protect the justice system and its integrity, these kinds of actions are punished by law in most parts of the world, including the United States of America.

Testimonies are important for proving cases. For instance, an eye witness can give his or her story of what occurred before, after and during a questionable event in the case. This report given during a testimony can be the sole piece of information that is needed to convict an individual of a crime. Likewise, it can be all that is necessary to prove a case to be conclusive.

There is more than one type of witness that may be used in the justice system. Character refers to those who are asked to testify regarding the personality and character of a plaintiff or defendant, while expert types are usually people who have little to no information about the alleged suspects or events. Instead, experts are called on to give their hypotheses or opinion on a topic based on their area of knowledge.

Having witnesses is helpful because they can be used to replay events that took place. This is especially true when there are disagreements about what occurred in a particular instance. They might also help the jury or court when it comes to deciding whether or not a crime was committed and if so, by whom.

Because of this, tampering is considered a crime and treated that way. People found guilty of tampering in this way may face a range of punishments and charges. These will vary based on numerous factors. When physical threats are made, up to 10 years may be the sentencing for the guilty party. If physical force is recorded, this may jump to 20 years. Tampering must not be successful in order for it to be punishable.

Generally speaking, this is done with the intent to, through illegal means, coerce or alter the testimony of a person who is set to testify in a case. This may involve threats toward family, friends or the person to testify. This terminology might also refer to bribery that is done with the same intent. Defendants in a civil or criminal case might offer money or other valuables to a witness in order to get him or her to testify falsely in their favor.

In America, witness tampering is considered a federal crime that is not taken lightly. This is used to describe tampering with witnesses, victims or informants. A person who is suspected of doing this may face multiple charges, including extortion, bribery and coercion, and is likely to receive severe consequences if found guilty.




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