Being a witness in court with a criminal record?

private89

I am a witness in court for a robbery case in a few weeks. Got a summons and was speaking with a Garda who said he had to disclose that I had a criminal record (public order and criminal damage) to the DPP and the other side.

Why is this? Will it come up in court when I am giving evidence? Not happy about it

Victor

If the conviction (arrests and non-convictions probably don't count) is relevant, the implication may be drawn that your evidence could be favourably disposed to one side or the other, through manipulation or allegiance.

coylemj

Are there restrictions on disclosure of a witness's previous convictions in cross examination?

If they are brought up, is there a legal quid pro quo whereby the side which called that witness is then allowed to counter by referencing previous convictions of witnesses on the other side, possibly even of the accused himself?

Are Am Eye

If your side give evidence of your good character then it is open
to the defense to give evidence of your convictions and past.
Otherwise they can't.

So it's just an issue of disclosure.

Nothing to worry about.