Lineup: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition and Use

Definition & Meaning

A lineup is a police procedure used to identify a suspect in a crime. During a lineup, a person suspected of committing a crime is placed alongside a group of individuals who share similar physical characteristics. An eyewitness to the crime is then asked to identify the person they saw at the crime scene. The goal is to ensure that the identification process is fair and reliable, minimizing the risk of misidentification.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Lineups are primarily used in criminal law to assist law enforcement in identifying suspects. This procedure is crucial in cases involving robbery, assault, or other violent crimes. It can also be part of the evidence presented in court. Individuals can manage some aspects of the identification process, but it is advisable to consult legal professionals for guidance on the implications of a lineup and how to challenge its validity if necessary.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

(hypothetical example) A robbery occurs at a local bank, and an eyewitness claims to have seen the suspect. The police conduct a lineup with the suspect and five other individuals who have similar features. The eyewitness identifies the suspect, which can then be used as evidence in court.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive)

State	Lineup Procedure Variations
California	Requires a double-blind lineup where the administrator does not know the suspect.
New York	Mandates that eyewitnesses receive specific instructions before the lineup.
Florida	Allows for the use of video recording during the lineup process.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition
Showup	A procedure where a single suspect is presented to an eyewitness shortly after a crime.
Photo lineup	A method where a series of photographs is shown to an eyewitness for identification.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in a case where a lineup is used, it is important to understand your rights. Consider the following steps:

Document everything related to the lineup process.
Consult with a legal professional to discuss the implications and potential challenges to the lineup.
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Quick facts

Typical fee for a legal consultation: varies by attorney, generally between $100 and $300 per hour.
Jurisdiction: Criminal law, varies by state.
Possible penalties for wrongful identification: can lead to wrongful convictions.