Legal Definitions - Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a legal process used during a trial to restore a witness's credibility after it has been attacked. This is done by introducing evidence that shows the witness is truthful and honest, or by presenting a prior statement made by the witness that is consistent with their current testimony.

For example, if a witness is cross-examined and their credibility is questioned, their lawyer may attempt to rehabilitate them by presenting evidence of their good character or by showing that they made a consistent statement in the past. This can help to restore the jury's trust in the witness and strengthen their testimony.

It's important to note that rehabilitation can only be used after a witness's credibility has been attacked. If evidence of a witness's credibility is presented before it has been questioned, this is considered bolstering and is not allowed.