Lie detector tests have become a staple of American justice even though there is little evidence that these devices work. Unfortunately, movies and television shows tell the public that if people are innocent, they will pass a lie detector test. The fact is that any stress may provide the device with a false result, thus making people look guilty. The following includes a few additional reasons as to why you shouldn’t take a polygraph test in New Jersey or any other state.
False results
Even if you are innocent, you still have a chance of failing the test. That is because anyone put in a tense situation, such as in a room with multiple police officers and an interrogator, will register stress. Faced with very detailed and often intense questions, any person could begin to panic. This is just one of the reasons why a criminal law attorney would likely advise against taking a polygraph test.
Not allowed in court
One of the most shocking pieces of information that people tend to learn about polygraph tests is that the test results are often not allowed to be presented in court. The science behind a polygraph test is so inadmissible that a judge won’t even bother with it. Thus, taking a test is likely to provide you with zero benefits other than making the investigators feel a little better about you if you pass it.
When a polygraph test is a good idea
In some cases, an attorney may advise you to take a polygraph test as an added measure to prove your innocence. However, you do not want to simply volunteer for the test that the police station is offering. First, a private polygraph test can be administered by a private company. This will allow your attorney to see how you would fare with a real police test and assess if they should fight it or not.
As you can see from the information above, a polygraph test is not the best route to take to prove your innocence. However, if you are being forced or pressured to take one, it is important to consult with an attorney first. An attorney may be able to provide you with the best possible legal route for your particular case.