Alibis

An alibi is a defense asserting that a defendant was not present at the scene of a crime when it occurred, or that they could not have been the perpetrator, because they were elsewhere. The term comes from the Latin alibi, meaning "elsewhere". In criminal proceedings, a successful alibi challenges a key element of the offense: presence at the scene. Alibis are typically asserted by the defendant and proven by witnesses, records, or other evidence that places the defendant at another time or location.

Alibis can be direct or corroborated. A direct alibi is based on testimonies or documents showing the defendant's location at the relevant time, such as statements from witnesses who saw the defendant elsewhere, or independent records like a receipt, a ticket, or video footage. Corroborated alibis combine multiple sources, including digital data (phone location, call logs, GPS), surveillance footage, or third-party records, to support a time-and-place claim.

The credibility of an alibi depends on the reliability and timing of the evidence, as well as potential corroboration. Alibi evidence may be challenged through cross-examination, forensic analysis, or the prosecution's presentation of alternative timelines. Some jurisdictions require notice of alibi witnesses before trial; others allow late disclosure. An alibi does not automatically guarantee acquittal if the prosecution can prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt through other evidence or by undermining the alibi's credibility.

In practice, alibis are one element of the overall defense strategy. Even strong alibis may be subjected to scrutiny, and poorly supported alibis can be dismissed or used to impeach the defendant's credibility.