New York Jury Instruction — 3 Credibility Of Witnesses is a set of instructions provided to jurors in New York courts to guide them in evaluating the credibility of witnesses during trial proceedings. These instructions aim to ensure that jurors make informed decisions based on reliable testimony. Credibility plays a crucial role in a trial, as it determines the weight the jury assigns to a witness's testimony. New York Jury Instruction — 3 focuses on providing an understanding of the factors that jurors should consider when assessing the credibility of witnesses. Here are some relevant keywords to illustrate the different types of credibility instructions provided: 1. Witness Testimony: This jury instruction deals with evaluating the testimony given by witnesses. It emphasizes the importance of carefully considering the witness's demeanor, consistency, and sincerity during their statement. 2. Witness Bias: This instruction addresses the potential biases or motivations that a witness may have, which can affect their credibility. Jurors are instructed to assess whether a witness has any personal interest, prejudice, or incentive that could influence their testimony. 3. Witness Character: This instruction guides jurors in evaluating a witness's character and reputation for truthfulness. Jurors may consider the witness's general reputation, prior acts of dishonesty, or reputation within the community. 4. Witness Perception and Memory: Jurors need to assess the witness's ability to perceive and recall events accurately. This instruction advises jurors to consider factors such as visibility, lighting conditions, distance, and the witness's personal ability to perceive and remember events. 5. Witness Inconsistencies: Jurors are instructed to assess any inconsistencies within a witness's testimony or between their testimony and other evidence presented. These inconsistencies might affect the witness's credibility and should be carefully weighed. 6. Witness Motives to Lie: This instruction encourages jurors to consider whether a witness has any motive or reason to lie or provide false information. Jurors are advised to evaluate whether the witness's statements are self-serving or could lead to a personal benefit. 7. Witness Corroboration: This instruction suggests that jurors may consider whether a witness's testimony is corroborated by other evidence or witnesses. If multiple witnesses provide consistent accounts, it may enhance the credibility of their testimony. 8. Expert Witness Testimony: This instruction specifically covers the credibility assessment of expert witnesses. Jurors are guided to evaluate the qualifications, expertise, and methodology employed by the expert witness to gauge their credibility. 9. Jury's Weighing of Credibility: Lastly, this instruction emphasizes that the jury has the sole responsibility to determine the credibility of witnesses and the weight to be given to their testimony. The jury is generally instructed that they can accept or reject all, part, or none of a witness's testimony. Overall, New York Jury Instruction — 3 provides valuable guidance to jurors to help them assess the credibility of witnesses in a fair and unbiased manner, enabling them to make informed decisions in criminal and civil trials.