Legal Definitions - turn state's evidence

When a defendant chooses to reveal valuable evidence to the prosecutor in exchange for a reduction of the charge or the dismissal of some charges, it is called turning state's evidence. This is also known as "flipping".

For example, in cases of organized crime, a defendant may provide information on a co-defendant or other members' crimes in order to receive a better sentence. However, the judge must agree to the reduction of charges or dismissal of some charges.

Turning state's evidence is a constitutional right, as established in the case of Brady v. United States. However, it must be done voluntarily and follow the Federal Rules of Criminal ProcedureRule 11.