Billerica, MA asked in Criminal Law and DUI / DWI for Massachusetts

Q: Officer made mistake in report can I use it against him at trial?

He said he like did something but it was another cop. Seems like a mistake as the other person got the same information but wondering if it helps my attorney get me a better deal

Related Topics:
1 Lawyer Answer
Kris  Patria
Kris Patria
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Fitchburg, MA
  • Licensed in Massachusetts

A: Mistakes in police reports can be used at trial to demonstrate that an officer has formed a wrong conclusion or conducts sloppy investigations. However, some mistakes are so minor and inconsequential that calling attention to them could backfire. A seasoned trial attorney will know what can type of mistake should be left alone and what type can be exploited.

1 user found this answer helpful

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.