Guvohlar

Guvohlar, in Uzbek usage, are individuals who provide testimony about facts relevant to a legal case. The term guvohlar is the plural of guvoh (witness). They can participate in civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings by recounting information they have observed, experienced, or have expert knowledge about.

There are several kinds of guvohlar. Eyewitnesses (ko‘rgan guvohlar) describe what they directly saw or heard. Expert witnesses (mutaxassis guvohlar) offer specialized knowledge in areas such as science, medicine, or forensics to help the court understand technical aspects of a case. Character witnesses (xarakter guvohlari) may speak about a person’s general character, typically in matters related to credibility or risk assessment. Testimony is usually given orally in court, though written statements or depositions can also be used in some proceedings.

In court, guvohlar are expected to tell the truth under oath or affirmation. They answer questions posed by judges and attorneys, and may be cross-examined to clarify statements or test consistency. The weight given to a guvoh’s testimony depends on factors such as credibility, consistency with other evidence, and the reliability of memory. Testimony is typically corroborated by other evidence when possible.

Guvohlar have responsibilities and protections. They must provide accurate information to the court and may face penalties for perjury if they knowingly lie. In many jurisdictions, witnesses are protected from coercion or retaliation and may receive assistance, such as interpreters or accommodations, to participate effectively. The legal system weighs guvohlar accounts alongside physical evidence and documentary records to establish facts.