By Hon. Evelyn J. Laporte | Confidence Coach & Retired NYS Supreme Court Judge
Own Your Confident Edge

Whether you’re a litigator, a leader, or simply navigating life, your ability to read people matters. In high-stakes situations—like the courtroom, client negotiations, or even personal relationships—knowing how to tell if someone is lying can protect your time, energy, and integrity.

After decades on the bench questioning witnesses and evaluating credibility, I’ve seen the full spectrum: from shaky alibis to smooth-talking con artists. Truth and deception leave clues—if you know what to look for.

Let’s break down 7 ways to spot a lie, plus how to trust your instincts without jumping to conclusions.

1. Inconsistencies in Their Story

Liars often struggle to keep track of the details. Their timeline might shift. Names change. Events feel disconnected.

Tip: Ask the same question in different ways at different times. Truth stays steady. Lies get messy.

2. Too Much Detail (or Not Enough)

Someone lying may over-explain in an attempt to sound believable. Or, they might be vague and evasive.

Watch for:

• Irrelevant details (“I was wearing my green socks, it was 6:12 PM, I remember exactly…”)
• Lack of specifics (“I don’t really remember… I was just… out.”)

3. Body Language Disconnect

Words might say one thing, but the body says another.

Common signs:

• Avoiding eye contact—or oddly, maintaining too much of it
• Fidgeting, touching the face, or covering the mouth
• Shaking head while saying “yes” or nodding while saying “no”

Bonus Insight: Liars tend to face slightly away from the person they’re deceiving.

4. Delayed Responses or Over-Prepared Answers

When someone lies, they often need a second to construct the story—or they’ve rehearsed it too well.

Red flags:

• Pauses before simple answers
• Overly scripted tone that lacks emotion

5. Shifts in Voice and Breathing

Lying activates the stress response. The body reacts—even if the mind tries to cover it up.

Listen for:

• A change in pitch (higher or tighter)
• Clearing the throat frequently
• Breathing faster or more shallow

6. Defensive or Aggressive Behavior

If you gently challenge someone and they snap, it might be a defense mechanism.

Examples:

• “Why would I lie about something like that?!”
• “You’re always accusing me—this is ridiculous.”
• Avoiding accountability with deflection

7. Gut Instinct (Trust It—Then Verify)

Your intuition is real. If something feels “off,” you may be picking up on subtle signals your conscious mind hasn’t processed yet.

The key: Don’t rely on gut feeling alone. Use it as a signal to ask more questions and look for other signs.

When It Matters Most: Lawyers, Leaders & Everyday Professionals

Whether you’re cross-examining a witness, interviewing a job candidate, or confronting a colleague, knowing how to spot deception helps you move with clarity and confidence.

And here’s the truth: Confidence isn’t just about speaking well—it’s about reading the room, the energy, and the truth behind the words.

Strengthen Your Inner Radar

At Own Your Confident Edge, I teach attorneys, professionals, and leaders how to trust their instincts, ask the right questions, and move with bold, quiet power—even in the face of uncertainty.

You don’t have to guess anymore. You just need tools, insight, and practice.

Want to Sharpen Your Confidence and Communication?

📞 Book a free coaching call with Evelyn