Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following can be a basis for impeaching a witness?

1. Prior inconsistent statements only

2. Prior criminal history only

3. Bias only

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The basis for impeaching a witness can encompass several factors that affect their credibility. Impeachment serves to challenge the reliability or truthfulness of a witness's testimony, and it is essential in legal contexts to ensure that the evidence presented is credible. Prior inconsistent statements can be used to impeach a witness because if a witness has made statements in the past that contradict their current testimony, it raises questions about their reliability. This inconsistency can undermine their credibility in the eyes of the jury. Prior criminal history can also be a legitimate basis for impeachment. If a witness has a criminal background, particularly involving dishonesty or moral turpitude, it can suggest to the jury that the witness may not be trustworthy, affecting the weight of their testimony. Bias is another critical factor that can lead to impeachment. If a witness has a personal stake in the case or a relationship with one of the parties involved, their impartiality may be compromised. Demonstrating bias can inform the jury of potential motivations behind the witness's testimony, which may not be based on objective truth. Therefore, all these elements—prior inconsistent statements, prior criminal history, and bias—provide valid grounds for impeaching a witness, making the correct answer comprehensive in outlining the various ways to challenge a