Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Top News
Top News
Politics

Jury Instructions On Handling Inconsistencies In High-Profile Trial

Former U.S. President Trump indicted by Manhattan grand jury, in New York City

In a recent court session, New York Supreme Court Judge Diane Kiesel shed light on how juries typically deal with inconsistencies in witness testimonies. The discussion arose during a pivotal moment in the trial involving Todd Blanch and references to Michael Cohen's grand jury testimony.

During the proceedings, Blanch raised concerns about a phone call involving Keith Schiller and Donald Trump that had not been previously mentioned to prosecutors. This led to a debate on whether the jury should consider this new information and its implications on the case.

Judge Kiesel explained that juries are provided with specific instructions on how to handle inconsistencies, both internal to a witness's testimony and between different witnesses. The jury is guided to assess whether the inconsistencies are minor and expected over time or if they strike at the core of the case.

She emphasized the importance of jurors meticulously analyzing all the information presented to them and determining the significance of any discrepancies. This critical evaluation process underscores the need for prosecutors to provide corroborating evidence to support their case, especially when dealing with witnesses like Michael Cohen who may have credibility challenges.

Ultimately, the jury's ability to discern the relevance of inconsistencies plays a crucial role in the outcome of the trial. Their task is to weigh the evidence carefully and make informed decisions based on the facts presented in court.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.