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Simple English definitions for legal terms
turn state's evidence
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A quick definition of turn state's evidence:
Term: Turn state's evidence
Definition: When someone is accused of a crime, they may choose to turn state's evidence. This means that they agree to give important information to the prosecutor about the crime or other people involved in exchange for a lighter punishment. This is often seen in cases of organized crime. The defendant must agree to do this on their own and follow certain rules. It is a constitutional right, but it must be done voluntarily and follow the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure Rule 11.
A more thorough explanation:
When a defendant chooses to reveal valuable evidence to the prosecutor in exchange for a reduction of the charge or the dismissal of some charges, it is called turning state's evidence. This is also known as "flipping".
For example, in cases of organized crime, a defendant may provide information on a co-defendant or other members' crimes in order to receive a better sentence. However, the judge must agree to the reduction of charges or dismissal of some charges.
Turning state's evidence is a constitutional right, as established in the case of Brady v. United States. However, it must be done voluntarily and follow the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure Rule 11.