Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Use immunity is a type of protection given to a person who is forced to testify in a criminal case. It means that the person's testimony cannot be used against them in a future prosecution. However, the government can still prosecute if they can prove that their evidence came from a different source. Use immunity is a way to encourage people to testify without fear of incriminating themselves. It is important because it helps to ensure that justice is served and that the truth is revealed in criminal cases.
Definition: Use immunity is a type of immunity granted to a person in exchange for their testimony in a criminal case. It protects the person from having their own testimony or any information derived from it used against them in a future prosecution. However, the government can still prosecute if it can show that its evidence comes from a legitimate independent source.
Example: A witness is called to testify in a criminal case. The government grants the witness use immunity, which means that their testimony cannot be used against them in a future prosecution. However, if the government can obtain evidence from a source other than the witness's testimony, they can still prosecute the witness.
Explanation: Use immunity is a way for the government to compel a witness to testify without violating their Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. It allows the witness to provide information without fear of being prosecuted based on that information. However, it does not provide complete protection, as the government can still prosecute if it can obtain evidence from a legitimate independent source.