Wayne Michigan Jury Instruction Impeachmenten— - Inconsistent Statement and Felony Conviction: Overview and Types The Wayne Michigan Jury Instruction on Impeachment is a crucial legal guide provided to juries during court trials. This instruction focuses specifically on assessing a witness's credibility when they have made inconsistent statements and have a felony conviction record. By considering these factors, the jury can determine the reliability and trustworthiness of a witness's testimony. Impeachment based on inconsistent statements involves evaluating whether the witness has made contradictory statements regarding a relevant issue in the case. In such instances, the jury is instructed to weigh the credibility of the statements and determine if they impact the overall reliability of the witness's testimony. Inconsistencies can arise due to memory lapses, misunderstandings, or intentional deception. On the other hand, Impeachment based on a felony conviction considers whether the witness has been previously convicted of a felony offense. A felony conviction may undermine the witness's credibility as it suggests a lack of moral character or a propensity to engage in criminal behavior. The jury instruction emphasizes that a felony conviction does not automatically render the witness's testimony false or unreliable but allows the jury to evaluate the witness with this information in mind. Types of Wayne Michigan Jury Instruction Impeachmenten— - Inconsistent Statement and Felony Conviction: 1. Inconsistent Statement Impeachment: This type of instruction is used when a witness has provided contradictory statements throughout their testimony or during previous interviews or testimonies. It guides the jury to analyze the inconsistencies, assess their significance, and determine whether they impact the witness's credibility and the overall weight of their testimony. 2. Felony Conviction Impeachment: This type of instruction is used when a witness has a prior felony conviction on their criminal record. It instructs the jury to consider the nature of the conviction, its relevance to the present case, and how it may affect the witness's credibility. The jury must assess whether the conviction impact's the witness's truthfulness and honesty under oath. 3. Impeachment Based on Both Inconsistent Statements and Felony Conviction: Sometimes, a witness might exhibit both inconsistent statements and a felony conviction, making their credibility even more questionable. In such cases, the jury is provided with a combined instruction, allowing them to carefully consider both factors and their potential impact on the witness's trustworthiness. The Wayne Michigan Jury Instruction on Impeachment — Inconsistent Statement and Felony Conviction serves as a valuable tool to help juries make informed decisions by considering the credibility and reliability of witnesses. These instructions ensure that jurors focus on relevant factors while evaluating testimony, promoting fairness and justice in the legal system.