What factors can affect the reliability of testimony?

What factors can affect the reliability of testimony?

Several factors can affect the reliability of testimony, including the witness's memory, stress levels, and the presence of leading questions.

How does stress impact a witness's memory?

Stress can impair memory recall, leading to inaccuracies in what a witness remembers about an event.

Are there any techniques to improve the accuracy of witness testimony?

Yes, techniques like cognitive interviewing can help witnesses recall details more accurately by reducing stress and encouraging open-ended responses.

What role does the environment play in a witness's testimony?

The environment can influence a witness's perception and memory, as factors like lighting, noise, and distractions can affect what they observe.

Can eyewitness testimony ever be completely trusted?

Eyewitness testimony can be valuable, but it is often subject to errors and biases, so it should be corroborated with other evidence.