Contrary to what Hollywood would have you believe, the use of lie detector tests is relatively rare by law enforcement. The reasons for this are numerous, starting with the fact that the results are usually not admissible in court. The primary reason why test results are typically inadmissible is the simple fact that the veracity or accuracy of lie detector results is highly questionable.
The underlying principle of a lie detector test is that people experience a notable physiological response when they are being deceptive. Lie detector test, therefore, measures things such as your breathing, blood pressure, pulse, and perspiration while you are providing answers to questions. Some questions are “control” questions, such as “What is your name”, which are used to provide a standard set of readings. Relevant questions are then asked that pertain to the investigation, such as “Did you kill your boss?” The expectation is that if you are lying your pulse will quicken, heart rate will increase, blood pressure go up, and you will perspire more. The biggest problem with using lie detector results in a criminal investigation is that no two people respond exactly the same to anything, much less to a lie detector test. Moreover, with practice an individual can learn to “beat” a lie detector test.
With all that in mind, the question still remains whether you should take one if asked. Like many people, you may feel that refusing may make you appear guilty. Keep in mind, however, that taking the test and failing will definitely make you appear guilty. The fact that you are telling the truth is no guarantee that you will pass the test. Guilty people pass lie detector tests and innocent people fail them all the time.
Given the fact that the results of a lie detector test, even if they show truthfulness, will not likely be admissible in court and the risk of failing the test, even if you are not lying, it is rarely in your best interest to agree to submit to a lie detector test. The only way to know with certainty, however, is to consult with an experienced Nebraska criminal defense attorney as soon as you are asked to take the test.
If you have been asked to take a lie detector test in relation to an ongoing criminal investigation in the State of Nebraska, contact Petersen Criminal Defense Law 24 hours a day at 402-509-8070 to discuss your case with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
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