Can an arrest be used for impeachment purposes?

Can an arrest be used for impeachment purposes?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only for felonies within 10 years
• D. Only for perjury within 10 years

Answer: (B)

Impeachment evidence centers on proven conduct that affects credibility, not on allegations that haven’t been proven. An arrest is just an accusation and does not show guilt or dishonest behavior. Because of that, simply being arrested isn’t admissible to impeach a witness. What can be used is a past conviction for a crime—especially crimes involving dishonesty or false statements—and even then only within certain time limits set by the rules. So an arrest cannot be used for impeachment purposes, which is why the best answer is No.

Impeachment evidence centers on proven conduct that affects credibility, not on allegations that haven’t been proven. An arrest is just an accusation and does not show guilt or dishonest behavior. Because of that, simply being arrested isn’t admissible to impeach a witness. What can be used is a past conviction for a crime—especially crimes involving dishonesty or false statements—and even then only within certain time limits set by the rules. So an arrest cannot be used for impeachment purposes, which is why the best answer is No.