Does a prosecutor need to avoid directly accusing a defendant of lying?
MultiRegion, United States of America
The following excerpt is from U.S. v. Bazua-Vizcarra, 927 F.2d 611 (9th Cir. 1991):
Prosecutors should "avoid directly accusing a defendant of lying--since jurors could believe the government has knowledge outside the evidence about the defendant's veracity." United States v. Garcia, 818 F.2d 136, 144 (1st Cir.1987). Such statements implicate the same fairness concerns outlined with respect to the prosecutor's comments vouching for evidence.
"The most advanced legal research software ever built."
The above passage should not be considered legal advice. Reliable answers to complex legal questions require comprehensive research memos. To learn more visit www.alexi.com.
Other Questions
Does a lawsuit filed by a criminal defendant against a prosecutor automatically disqualify that prosecutor? (MultiRegion, United States of America)
Does a prosecutor have to avoid indirect reference to the failure of a defendant to testify? (MultiRegion, United States of America)
Does a prosecutor's mention of "uncontradicted or unrefuted" evidence constitute improper commentary by the prosecutor on defendant's failure to testify? (MultiRegion, United States of America)
Can a prosecutor refer to the guilty pleas of co-defendants as evidence of a defendant's guilt? (MultiRegion, United States of America)
In a "direct victim" case, what is the test for determining whether a defendant has a duty to the direct victim? (MultiRegion, United States of America)
Is it permissible for a federal prosecutor to argue that a defendant is lying on Facebook? (MultiRegion, United States of America)
How to instruct a jury in a drug case that a defendant intentionally avoided learning all the facts in order to avoid prosecution? (MultiRegion, United States of America)
What analysis is used by a trial court to determine liability of a nonsettling defendant where plaintiffs have already settled with other defendants? (MultiRegion, United States of America)
Does the period of time spent in state custody of an accused be taken into account when the accused has been held in federal custody? (MultiRegion, United States of America)
Can an accused who otherwise satisfies the requirements of the offence under s. 88(1) of the Criminal Code be excused from criminal liability where the possession of a weapon is necessary for defending himself? (Canada (Federal), Canada)
