CJ 140_Module Eight_Discussion

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Southern New Hampshire University *

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140

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Industrial Engineering

Date

Dec 6, 2023

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docx

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Uploaded by willismeltdown

CJ 140_Module 8 Discussion "I agree that an ineffective presentation by a single witness can lead to a potential acquittal, regardless of all other evidence." Hello class! Week 8 is here, and we have made it to the final stanza! I have thoroughly enjoyed this material and it has taught so much more and made me a better Federal officer in the process. This discussion is particularly important for us as criminal justice professionals, no matter which department you are in. In the military, I would preach to my Soldiers to: Be in the right place, the right time, in the right uniform, and doing the right thing. No one can question your confidence, work ethic, and professionalism in this case. The reference provided in the discussion is an amazing “Bible” to taking the stand. I really believe that Van Brocklin (2020) hit the nail on the head with how she explained to operate in court. Your appearance and communication can convey many things about how you operate as a professional. Having your mental mindset in order before having to take the stand can truly make or break a case. In many jury trials, the jury’s decision must be unanimous. They must believe that there is no reasonable doubt and sticking to the facts on the stand can help them achieve this outcome. Answering questions too fast or incorrectly and even contradicting yourself can have the jury lead to believe that you are lying, and the accused can get off free. I do believe that some of these things mentioned are minor exaggeration. For example: no one is expecting an officer to go and get his or her nails done prior to trial. The importance is to have a neat appearance and many already have much to worry about besides the small things. The inaccuracy or behavior of the person on the stand can change the outcome. As far as the non-verbal communication, officers can sometimes become complacent due to the number of times that they will enter the stand, and this can be seen by the over-relaxed way they take the oath or speak to attorneys. A jury can see this and immediately think that this person does not care for the justice process and would also raise questions of the accuracy in the testimony that they give. Again, I am speaking about the trial part. There is not much there when a person has clear cut evidence of a crime or being part of a crime in smaller courts. Overall, it is best to take the advice listed by Van Brocklin (2020) in preparation for being a witness. Even if some things seem to be a little exaggerated, it is best to be on top of your game when dealing with your department’s credibility or a person’s fate. References Van Brocklin, V. (2007, October 23). Are you ready to testify? Retrieved October 15, 2023, from https://www.policeone.com/legal/articles/1459523-Are-you-ready-to-testify/

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