What does it mean to impeach a witness?

Impeaching a witness refers to the process of challenging their credibility and reliability as a source of information in the legal proceeding. This is essential in court as it allows attorneys to cast doubt on the testimony given by the witness. By highlighting inconsistencies in a witness's testimony, prior convictions, biases, or any potential motives to lie, an attorney aims to undermine the trustworthiness of that witness's statements.

This process is critical in ensuring that the evidence presented is credible and that the court can make informed decisions based on reliable testimony. Effective impeachment can significantly influence the outcome of a case, making it a vital tool for attorneys during litigation.