Hi Class,

I do believe that an ineffective presentation by a single witness can lead to a potential acquittal, regardless of all other evidence. I think this is because it’s easier for other people i.e a jury, to believe a person over the hard factual evidence. So, if a witness portrays an ineffective presentation, then it could lead to an acquittal. Like the saying goes, “a witness’s testimony can make or break a case.” (Hansen & Miller Law Firm, 2021). Non verbal communication by the witness is significant to the “believability” of the testimony because if the witness doesn’t make eye contact, it could insinuate they aren’t being truthful. Or if they’re bouncing their leg or moving it could show they are nervous. Long pauses would insinuate that they are not being truthful or thinking of how to answer. A witness is key, because through human flaw we believe what we hear more than what we see.

Reference:

Hansen & Miller Law Firm. (2021, April 30). Don’t let dishonest witness testimony lead to your conviction. Hansen & Miller Law Firm. Retrieved February 23, 2023, from https://www.hansenmiller.com/blog/2021/04/dont-let-dishonest-witness-testimony-lead-to-your-conviction-2/ 

In your response to your peers, consider the explanation they provide in support of their response. Do you agree with their explanation? Why or why not? What about their explanation is different from yours? Which of their points or arguments make the most sense to you, even if you disagree with their overall position?