What is the purpose of sequestration of witnesses under Rule 615?

• A. To prevent witnesses from hearing testimony of other witnesses, reduce bias, and ensure independent testimony
• B. To compel witnesses to testify immediately
• C. To allow witnesses to review evidence together
• D. To protect privilege

Answer: (A)

Sequestration aims to keep each witness’s memory independent by preventing them from hearing others’ testimony. When witnesses haven’t heard what others say, they’re less likely to be biased, coached, or influenced into matching or altering their stories. This helps preserve the reliability of each account and makes it easier for the jury to judge credibility based on independent recollections rather than a stitched-together narrative.

The other options describe goals that aren’t about preserving independent testimony: forcing immediate testimony, letting witnesses review evidence together, or merely protecting privilege.