mercredi 12 février 2014

The Components Of Witness Tampering

By Eula Nichols


Witness tampering is a kind of legal term. It is usually defined as any threat or harm that has been directed toward witnesses. Usually this is done in an attempt to influence the final testimony and the case. Witness testimony is used by plaintiff and defendant parties in both criminal and civil cases.

Interfering with testimonies is a serious offense. It can disrupt a civil case, as well as criminal prosecution. In order to protect the integrity of a justice system, this type of interference with evidence is considered punishable by law in most regions around the world.

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, tampering is done with the goal to alter or coerce testimony. This is achieved through illegal means, such as threatening the person who will be testifying, as well as his or her friends and family members. The term is also applied in cases where bribery is used for the same purpose. For example, defendants in a criminal or civil case may offer valuables, such as money, to a witness in exchange for a false testimony that is in favor of their case.

In the United States, witness tampering is recognized as a federal crime. It is defined as tampering with informants, victims or witnesses. An individual who is suspected of this may face numerous charges, including bribery, coercion and extortion.




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