Definition

Noun: - Testimony provided by an accomplice or co-conspirator against their partners in crime in exchange for immunity or a reduced sentence: In a criminal trial, "state's evidence" refers to the situation where a person involved in a crime agrees to testify as a witness for the prosecution against the other defendants.

Usage

• This term is used almost exclusively in legal contexts, particularly in criminal law in the United States.
• It describes the specific evidence provided by the cooperating witness, as well as the status of that witness.
• The phrase is often used with verbs like "turn" or "become."

Examples

• The gang member decided to turn state's evidence to avoid a life sentence.
• The prosecution's case relied heavily on the testimony of an accomplice who had become state's evidence.
• By offering state's evidence, the defendant received a plea bargain.

Advanced Usage

• To turn state's evidence: This is the most common phrasal construction. It means to formally agree to testify for the prosecution against one's former associates in crime.
  • Facing serious charges, the informant chose to turn state's evidence.

Variants and Related Words

• King's evidence / Queen's evidence: The equivalent term used in some Commonwealth countries, such as the United Kingdom, depending on the reigning monarch.
• Approver: (Archaic) A person who confesses to a crime and testifies against their accomplices.
• Cooperating witness: A more general modern term for a defendant or accomplice who assists the prosecution.

Synonyms

• Testimony for the prosecution
• Cooperator's testimony
• Accomplice testimony

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically implies a deal has been made between the witness and the state (the prosecution). The witness is typically granted immunity or leniency in return for their testimony.
• It is a key tool for prosecutors to dismantle criminal organizations by securing testimony from within them.
• The evidence provided is not just physical evidence but primarily consists of sworn testimony detailing the criminal activities of others.

Noun

1. evidence for the prosecution in criminal proceedings