Addressing False Eyewitness Testimony in the Courtroom
Aired on
Overview
In May, 2015 a suspect that attacked an NYPD officer with a hammer was shot by police in the middle of the day, on a crowded NYC street. There were many eyewitnesses to the incident. Almost all of the witness reports were incorrect. Several people inaccurately reported that the police officers shot an unarmed man while he was on the ground and handcuffed. The incident was recorded on surveillance video which documents that the suspect attacked one of the officers with a hammer and that officer's partner shot the man. Why is eyewitness memory flawed? How can attorneys use psychology to explore and explain issues common to eyewitness testimony throughout trial? This presentation explores the psychology of memory and techniques specific to addressing these issues starting with jury selection. Particular attention is paid to difficult witnesses including children, the elderly, and victims of sexual assault.
Learning Objectives:
I. Understand the psychology concepts and principles surrounding eyewitness accounts and memory
II. Apply principles of psychology to effective jury selection
III. Refine cross examination questioning to address police technique flaws in lineups, interrogation, and investigation
IV. Understand New Jersey’s approach to jury instructions addressing principles of psychology
V. Formulate proposed jury instructions to address common principles of psychology for use in other states
VI. Apply witness memory techniques to depositions and throughout the discovery process
Access Live Webcast:
Most Lawline members have unlimited access to all 350+ annual live webcasts and 1,500 hours of on-demand courses. Login here using your member ID and password. Not a member? Join here. If you are only interested in purchasing this course, click add course to cart in upper right corner. Call or email with questions: 1-877-518-0660
Gain access to this course, plus unlimited access to 1,800+ courses, with an Unlimited Subscription.
Explore Lawline Subscriptions