state's evidence

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state's evidence

A witness agreed to turn state's evidence against the other defendants.

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.
state's evidence

A witness agreed to turn state's evidence against the other defendants.

Noun
  1. evidence for the prosecution in criminal proceedings