Which of the following is a common law felony used for impeachment by prior conviction?

Which of the following is a common law felony used for impeachment by prior conviction?

• A. Treason
• B. Embezzlement
• C. Tax Evasion
• D. Murder

Answer: (D)

Impeachment by prior conviction rests on showing a witness’s credibility through evidence of a prior felony. Among traditional, common-law felonies, murder is the clearest example; its grave, universally recognized nature makes it a standard basis for impeachment by prior conviction. Treason is a special political offense and not the typical common-law felony used for this purpose. Tax evasion and embezzlement are usually statutory offenses rather than established common-law felonies, so they aren’t the classic choices for this impeachment context. So, murder is the best answer because of its long-standing status as a common-law felony commonly invoked to impeach a witness.

Impeachment by prior conviction rests on showing a witness’s credibility through evidence of a prior felony. Among traditional, common-law felonies, murder is the clearest example; its grave, universally recognized nature makes it a standard basis for impeachment by prior conviction. Treason is a special political offense and not the typical common-law felony used for this purpose. Tax evasion and embezzlement are usually statutory offenses rather than established common-law felonies, so they aren’t the classic choices for this impeachment context. So, murder is the best answer because of its long-standing status as a common-law felony commonly invoked to impeach a witness.