n. a witness whose testimony is more than likely to be true based on his/her experience, knowledge, training and appearance of honesty and forthrightness, as well as common human experience. This is subjective in that the trier of fact (judge or jury) may be influenced by the demeanor of the witness or other factors. (See: credibility)
CREDIBLE WITNESS. A credible witness is one who is competent to give
evidence, and is worthy of belief. 5 Mass. 219 17 Pick. 134; 2 Curt. Ecc. R.
336. In deciding upon the credibility of a witness, it is always pertinent
to consider whether he is capable of knowing the thing thoroughly about
which he testifies. 2. Whether he was actually present at the transaction.
3. Whether he paid, sufficient attention to qualify himself to be a reporter
of it; and 4. Whether he honestly relates the affair fully as he knows it,
without any purpose or desire to deceive, or suppress or add to the truth.
2. In some of the states, as Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Virginia, wills must be attested by credible witnesses. See Attesting Witness; Competent Witness; Disinterested Witness; Respectable Witness; and Witness.