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Miki
Lv 6
Miki asked in Politics & GovernmentLaw & Ethics · 1 decade ago

Is it true that a woman.man does not have to testify against their spouse? I am from Mass?

Update:

i didn't ask for opinions i asked for facts. thank you

Update 2:

i didn't ask for opinions i asked for facts. thank you

Update 3:

i was looking for a true answer, i don't really care about what you think about anything.

question was simple, all it required was a yes or no and an explanation or source.

6 Answers

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    Yes, in the US a spouse cannot be compelled to testify against the other.

    The spousal or marital privilege has a long history, though its application has evolved over time. The law holds that no one has a privilege to refuse to testify unless otherwise provided by constitution (e.g., the right to avoid self-incrimination), statute, or state or federal rules of evidence. The spousal privilege is a combination of two elements: 1) the right not to be compelled to testify against one's spouse, and 2) the protection of marital confidences.

  • 1 decade ago

    It depends. In federal court, if the communication was between spouses and there was no one else around, you do not have to testify against your spouse. Most states have this rule also.

  • 1 decade ago

    I do not believe that is the case any longer

    if it is that needs to change

    If your spouse is guilty of a crime and you have info on it you should be forced to testify against them

    " I asked for facts"

    ask your criminal husband you want to protect

  • wizjp
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    but be aware; there are cases of domestic abuse where you will be called to testify to the facts of the matter; they may pertain to your husband,

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  • 1 decade ago

    You have to have been married when the incident(s) in question occured. Otherwise there is no spousal priveledge.

  • Yes, if they choose not to.

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