Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Courtroom legalities

In California criminal trials can the investigating police officer in the case testify in court and at the same time be present for the testimony of other witnesses that are directly contradicting his testimony? This investigating officer sat right next to the prosecutor and assisted him with his direct examination. Is this legal? No other witnesses in the case were allowed to be present during other people's testimony.


Asked on 10/26/07, 11:51 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Re: Courtroom legalities

The investigating officer is usually allowed to remain in the courtroom even when other witnesses are excluded. The judge must authorize her presence, but they almost always do when the prosecution so requests. Such a request is standard procedure.

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Answered on 10/28/07, 3:48 pm


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