IEA Section 153 — Exclusion of evidence to contradict answers to questions testing veracity

Summary

If a witness is asked a question that is only meant to test their honesty by attacking their character, and they answer it, you cannot bring in other evidence to prove they were lying in that answer. However, if the witness gave a false answer, they can later be charged with the crime of giving false evidence.

Official Text

When a witness has been asked and has answered any question which is relevant to the inquiry only in so far as it tends to shake his credit by injuring his character, no evidence shall be given to contradict him; but, if he answers falsely, he may afterwards be charged with giving false evidence.

Old <-> New Code Mapping

• BSA §156 — Exclusion of evidence to contradict answers to questions testing veracity