swearing match
A swearing match refers to a case that turns the word of one witness against another. A swearing match situation arises when two witnesses’ words irreconcilably enter into conflict. Usually, this occurs when there is no other evidence to determine the truth. The testimonies of both witnesses will be assessed and the outcome of a swearing match usually depends on whom the jury finds most trustworthy.
Swearing match is also referred to as a swearing contest or oath against an oath.
[Last reviewed in April of 2025 by the Wex Definitions Team]
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