Connecticut § 54-84a - Testimony against spouse.
Full text of Connecticut Connecticut General Statutes § 54-84a — Testimony against spouse., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 54-84a. Testimony against spouse.
Sec. 54-84a. Testimony against spouse. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, in any criminal proceeding, a person may elect or refuse to testify against his or her then lawful spouse.
(b) The testimony of a spouse may be compelled, in the same manner as for any other witness, in a criminal proceeding against the other spouse for (1) joint participation with the spouse in criminal conduct, (2) bodily injury, sexual assault or other violence attempted, committed or threatened upon the spouse, or (3) bodily injury, sexual assault, risk of injury pursuant to section 53-21, or other violence attempted, committed or threatened upon the minor child of either spouse, or any minor child in the care or custody of either spouse.
(P.A. 80-313, S. 45; P.A. 11-152, S. 14.)
History: (Revisor's note: In 1993, obsolete reference to repealed Sec. 53-25 was deleted editorially by the Revisors); P.A. 11-152 replaced former provisions with Subsec. (a) authorizing person to elect or refuse to testify against then lawful spouse in any criminal proceeding and Subsec. (b) re when testimony of spouse may be compelled.
Cited. 199 C. 631; 211 C. 555. Section codifies adverse spousal testimony privilege, as distinguished from marital communications privilege, and the privilege belongs to the witness spouse and is meant to protect against impact of the testimony on the marriage. 267 C. 710.
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut § 54-84a
What does Connecticut General Statutes § 54-84a cover?
Section 54-84a ("Testimony against spouse.") is part of the Connecticut General Statutes, the codified statutory law of Connecticut. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Connecticut § 54-84a?
A common citation format is "Connecticut General Statutes § 54-84a" (Connecticut). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Connecticut law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Connecticut official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Connecticut attorney.
How does Connecticut § 54-84a apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Connecticut can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Connecticut.