Let's Say You Are a Defense Attorney and Are Defending

question 335

Essay

Let's say you are a defense attorney and are defending a client on a murder charge. The victim was found in a dark alley. A witness had a glimpse of a shadowy figure standing over the body. The police thoroughly interrogate the witness and arrest a young man. The man has an alibi. There is no other evidence against him, except the testimony of the witness. The witness is positive. What factors may lead you to doubt this strong testimony of the witness? Pretend you are the defense attorney and, using your knowledge of the problems with eyewitness testimony and memory, tell the jurors why they should be doubtful of the witness.

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Definitions:

Endorphin Levels

The concentration of endorphins, which are natural, pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body, in one's bloodstream.

Afraid

A feeling of fear or anxiety about a possible or imminent situation or event.

Under Stress

Experiencing physical or emotional tension resulting from challenging or demanding circumstances.

Cortisol

A steroid hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress or low blood-glucose concentration; it plays a key role in the body's stress response.