Tennessee Private Investigator Licensing Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a reason for taking copious notes during an investigation?

1. Memories aren't perfect

2. A witness may forget details

3. A witness will change their story

4. Your attorney may request the notes

The correct answer is: A witness may forget details

Taking copious notes during an investigation is vital for several reasons. Memories, whether of witnesses, investigators, or anyone involved, are inherently imperfect. Accurate note-taking serves as a safeguard against the natural fading or distortion of memories over time. Witnesses may indeed forget details as time passes since their original statement, making it imperative to have thorough documentation that captures the moment as it happened. Furthermore, there is a possibility that witnesses might change their stories later due to various factors, which underscores the importance of written records to ensure a reliable account of what was initially presented. Additionally, notes can also be valuable in legal contexts. Your attorney may request these notes for case preparation, enabling them to build a robust defense or prosecution strategy based on documented evidence gathered during the investigation. In contrast, the notion that a witness may forget details is a legitimate reason for taking extensive notes; therefore, this option does not align with the question's requirement of identifying an incorrect reason for note-taking.