What is the purpose of a prior consistent statement?

A prior consistent statement serves the purpose of supporting a witness during rehabilitation, particularly after that witness's credibility has been attacked. When a witness's testimony is called into question, often their prior statements can be introduced to show consistency in their account, thereby reinforcing their reliability. This is important because it helps the jury understand that the witness's testimony has not changed over time and was, in fact, consistent before any biases or motives to lie were suggested.

The use of prior consistent statements is often crucial in trials, particularly when a witness may be accused of fabricating their testimony or when their reliability is challenged due to inconsistencies arising from subsequent questioning. These statements are not considered new evidence, nor are they used primarily for impeachment. Instead, their function is specifically tied to rehabilitating the witness after their credibility has been undermined, making it a key tool in courtroom advocacy.