Direct quotes from witnesses should be used to capture exact words for which reason?

• A. Yes, to capture exact words
• B. No, paraphrase only
• C. Only if the quotes are brief
• D. Never include profanity

Answer: (A)

Direct quotes are used to preserve the exact words because phrasing matters. When you quote a witness verbatim, you keep the precise language, emphasis, and nuance they used, which can convey meaning that paraphrase might lose or alter. Paraphrasing introduces the risk of misinterpreting what was said or unintentionally changing the intent or tone of the statement. Having the exact words on the record helps ensure accuracy, supports credibility, and allows others—investigators, prosecutors, and judges—to assess how the statement was spoken and whether it was accurately captured. In situations where precise wording carries significance, such as admissions, descriptions, or tone, quoting verbatim preserves the original meaning and context.