Corroborating Evidence

Corroborating evidence is evidence which strengthens other evidence presented at trial. Corroborating evidence becomes extremely important for a criminal case if the facts of the case are in dispute. For instance, if the defense or prosecution can show their evidence is supported by additional evidence this can help convince the judge or jury that their version of events is more likely to be true.

For instance, if Billy states that he was assaulted by Dan, but Dan says that he did not assault Billy both sides can strengthen their case with corroborating evidence. For instance, if Billy goes to the hospital, gets an x-ray and has to get a cast for a broken arm, this evidence corroborates the story that he was assaulted. If, however, Billy appears later at a softball game without injury and a witness can testify that his arm was not injured, this corroborates Dan's story that Billy was not injured.

It is possible to get a conviction or find in favor of the prosecution without corroborating evidence, but it can be difficult if some of the testimony is unreliable.