How do I start off a cross-examination?
Asked by: Chad Weber | Last update: July 6, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (73 votes)
It is always easier to cross-examine a witness in a chronological progression from general to specific. That is, start with the general questions and progress to specific questions. This structure makes it easier for the jurors to understand the theme and story of your case.
How to begin a cross-examination?
Good cross examination starts with writing the story that you want the witness to tell. If you can get away with it, phrase your questions as statements, that the witness must answer 'yes' to. ``Your name is John Smith,`` ``You work at Johnson's garage,`` ``You were working the night of January 21,'' etc.
What to say in a cross-examination?
Each question you ask during your cross-examination should be a leading question, such as “It was raining that evening, correct?” Leading questions nudge witnesses in the direction you want them to go while also limiting their ability to explain their answers. Each question you ask should focus on one fact.
What is an example of cross-examination?
Your cross-examination can also include questions about the witness's underlying motivations for testifying or any bias that the witness may have in favor of the other party or against you. For example, you could ask: Isn't it true that you owe the other party money?
How to introduce evidence on cross-examination?
- Show your exhibit to the other side and mark it. ...
- Have your witness identify your exhibits. ...
- Show the witness has first-hand knowledge of the exhibit. ...
- Ask the judge to admit the exhibit as evidence.
Easy (and Effective) Cross Examination Technique!
How to start an evidence sentence?
Sentence starters to help you cite your evidence! “The author stated…” “According to text…” “The text says…” “Based on what I read…” “In paragraph ___, it states …” “For instance, …” “According to the passage…” “In the text…” “For example, …” “The author wrote…” “Based on the passage…”
What do you say to introduce evidence?
“Your Honor, we offer exhibit X into evidence at this time. The authenticity of the exhibit has been stipulated.” 5. Court, “Is there an objection?” If opposing counsel believes a proper foundation has not been laid, the attorney should be prepared to object at this time.
What is a sentence for cross-examine?
He does not have an opportunity to cross-examine. The court will cross-examine him about his occupation, why he retired, and so on. The defendant's counsel is not to be entitled to cross-examine on three matters. We were able to cross-examine them and find out what had gone wrong.
What is an opening statement in a trial?
The opening statement at the beginning of the trial is limited to outlining facts. This is each party's opportunity to set the basic scene for the jurors, introduce them to the core dispute(s) in the case, and provide a general road map of how the trial is expected to unfold.
What questions do judges ask in court?
- Can the prosecutor present the charges? ...
- What evidence does the prosecution have against the defendant? ...
- Is the evidence legally obtained and admissible? ...
- Does the evidence establish probable cause? ...
- Does the defense wish to cross-examine the prosecution's witnesses?
What not to do during cross-examination?
Other 'don'ts' are not to insist on yes or no answers; not to create the opportunity for ruinous redirect examination; not to argue; not to object to the judge's questions; not to say, 'Remember you are under oath;' and not to be baited by the opposing attorney.
What is the number one rule of cross-examination?
Use Only Leading Questions
On cross-examination the law permits questions that suggest the answer and allows the attorney to put his words in the witnesses' mouth.
How long should a cross-examination be?
The overwhelming majority of witnesses can be cross-examined in 30 minutes or less even in very complicated cases. Effective cross-examination makes a point quickly and keeps the jury engaged from the moment you ask your first question until you pass the witness for re-direct.
What are the hints on cross-examination?
- #1 Tell the Truth (and Only the Truth) ...
- #2 Keep It Brief. ...
- #3 Maintain a Consistent Demeanor. ...
- #4 Be Serious. ...
- #5 Communicate Through Clear Speech. ...
- #6 Be Aware of Posture. ...
- #7 Ask for Clarification. ...
- #8 Understand the Dangers.
Who goes first in cross-examination?
Generally, a witness is initially questioned by the party who called them to the stand on direct examination . Afterwards, the opposing party can question the witness on cross-examination, often using targeted or leading questions (note that leading questions are not allowed during direct examination).
What questions does a lawyer ask in court?
- Can you describe the defendant's demeanor on the day of the incident?
- Did the defendant seem intoxicated or under the influence of drugs?
- What was the defendant wearing at the time?
- Did the defendant say anything to you before or after the incident?
- What is your relationship to the defendant?
What is a good example of an opening statement?
Often, the easiest way to present a coherent theme is to state it in a straightforward manner as your introductory sentence: “Ladies and gentlemen, this case is about unfair competition by the defendant.” In other situations, the theme may come out more subtly, as you tell a story that slowly unfolds.
What do judges say at the beginning of a trial?
Judge: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Calling the case of the People of the State of California versus (defendant's first name). Are both sides ready? District Attorney: Ready for the People, Your Honor.
How to give an opening statement?
When structuring an opening statement, first tell the jury who you are, why you are there and what the jury will decide. “Frame your issues,” Soto said. “Keep it simple and tell a compelling story. Make it easy for the jurors to understand.
What is a good sentence for cross?
Examples of cross in a Sentence
Verb We crossed the state border hours ago. The dog crossed the street. The highway crosses the entire state. He was the first runner to cross the finish line.
What is a short sentence for examine?
You should have your eyes examined. An accountant has been hired to examine the company's books. He was examined by several doctors, who found nothing wrong with him. The police examined the evidence carefully.
How to conduct a cross-examination?
- Be brief.
- Short questions, plain words.
- Always ask leading questions.
- Do not ask a question to which you do not know the answer in advance.
- Listen to the witness's answers.
- Never quarrel with the witness.
What is a good intro to evidence?
Introduce: Introducing evidence allows a smooth transition into the point you are trying to make. An example is something as simple as, “One source says…” or “Johnson stated…”
How do you start an evidence statement?
- State your claim.
- Give your evidence, remembering to relate it to the claim.
- Comment on the evidence to show how it supports the claim.