EYE WITNESSES AND OTHERS Recently, I overheard a practicing Prosecuting Attorney say that he would rather not have an eye-witness of a crime in the court room. Truth, he seemed to feel, when properly used is a worthy co-worker, but not something which is at its best when blurted out or bandied about too freely. It ages awfully fast.
Too often an eye-witness seems to think his status is above that of the lawyers involved. Such a witness, under proper control, can be very good to have around. Truth is best handled in small quantities with specific goals in mind. The attorney knows those points of specific need and concern and it is far better that he asks the witnesses to ladle out a small portion of the truth/gravy where it is most needed than to simply flood the contents of the tureen over whatever portion he thinks might be the mashed potatoes of the feast.
Other than being prone to overdo their role during their "all too brief on stage or in the legal a limelight what other qualities may eye-witnesses have which may cause concern. We can use ourselves as examples. What do you see when you "witness" an event - perhaps a fender bender of some sort. What did you see? Tell exactly the way it all took place. You would be able to give good account of all g that occurred. You saw it happen. You are physical witness of every action which which took place.
Wrong. Even as you tell it or, write it all down you remember looking aside several times to see if any flying glass particles had cut your legs or those of others in the crowd; you recognized a girl across the way and waved to as she helped the little kid to step back and away.
