What does the term "impeachment" typically mean in a legal context?

In a legal context, "impeachment" primarily refers to the process of calling into question the credibility of a witness. This can occur during a trial, where an attorney may challenge the reliability or truthfulness of a witness's testimony. Factors such as prior inconsistent statements, biases, motives to lie, or criminal history may be introduced to undermine the witness's credibility in the eyes of the judge or jury.

This concept is crucial because a witness’s credibility can significantly influence the outcome of a case. Impeachment does not refer to the revocation of a lawyer's license, the presentation of new evidence, or questioning the legality of a contract, as those terms signify different legal processes or concepts entirely. Thus, the correct association of "impeachment" with the destruction of a witness's credibility reflects its role within the courtroom proceedings.