What do I say if I don't want to answer a question in court?

Asked by: Beau Runte  |  Last update: April 6, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (71 votes)

Clearly State Your Reason: If you decide to refuse to answer a question, you must clearly articulate your reason. For instance, stating, “I plead the Fifth” indicates that you're invoking the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination.

Can you say I decline to answer in court?

In a more formal setting such as a deposition, hearing or trial, the person might say: “On the advice of counsel, I invoke my fifth amendment privilege against self-incrimination and respectfully decline to answer your question.”

How to avoid answering questions in court?

If you do not want to answer a question, do not ask the judge whether it is an improper question. If it is an improper question, the prosecuting attorney will object. Stop instantly, however, when the judge interrupts you or when an attorney objects. Honesty is the best policy.

How do you refuse to answer a question?

The most direct way to do this is to simply say that you will not answer the question. However, even though you are saying "no," you can still do it politely. I'm sorry, but I'd prefer not to say. I'm sorry, but I don't want to share that information.

What to say in court if you don't know the answer?

If you do not understand a question, it is alright to ask that the question be repeated or clarified. If you do not know an answer, say so. Do not give attorneys answers you think they want. If you do not remember, say you don't remember – not that you do not know.

How to testify in Court. 3-step process to Testify to WIN in Trial.

15 related questions found

How do I say I don't know in court?

Instead the better practice is to say “I'm not sure” or “I don't know.” If you are unsure about an answer you cannot then answer the question.

Can you choose not to answer in court?

If a witness refuses to answer a question without a valid legal basis, such as the protection afforded by the Fifth Amendment, the court can take several actions. These actions can range from compelling the witness to answer the question, holding the witness in contempt of court, or even imposing fines or jail time.

How do you respond when you don't want to answer a question?

Useful Expressions to Handle Uncomfortable Questions
  1. I'd rather not say.
  2. I'd prefer not to talk about that.
  3. I'd rather not get into [this topic] at this event.
  4. I'd prefer not to discuss this right now.
  5. I'm sorry, that's private.
  6. That's a little too personal.
  7. That topic is too difficult to discuss at this moment.

How do you say no to answer?

50 ways to nicely say "no"
  • "Unfortunately, I have too much to do today. ...
  • "I'm flattered by your offer, but no thank you."
  • "That sounds fun, but I have a lot going on at home."
  • "I'm not comfortable doing that task. ...
  • "Now isn't a good time for me. ...
  • " Sorry, I have already committed to something else.

Can I say I don't answer questions?

You cannot be punished for refusing to answer a question. It is a good idea to talk to a lawyer before agreeing to answer questions. In general, only a judge can order you to answer questions.

How do you tactfully avoid answering questions?

10 Ways to Avoid Answering a Question
  1. No comment.
  2. I'm not at liberty to say. (= I don't have permission to give the information)
  3. Wait and see. ...
  4. Let me get back to you. ...
  5. I'm sorry, that's confidential.
  6. I'm sorry, that's personal.
  7. I'd rather not talk about it.
  8. It's none of your business.

What to say and what not to say in court?

Don't lie about anything, not even white [small] lies. If you are discovered to be lying, the judge may find it hard to believe you when you are telling the truth. Don't argue with the questioner. Don't ask questions back: “What would you do if…”

Can you cry on a witness stand?

In Los Angeles, it is illegal to cry on the witness stand.

Can you say no in court?

When you Testify in Court: Listen to the question, and answer ONLY that question. Rule 1: If the question asked you to say either “Yes” or “No”, then say “Yes” or “No”.

Can you say bad words in court?

Criminal contempt is an action that impugns the integrity of the court or brings the court into disrepute. For example, yelling curse words at a judge would be direct criminal contempt of court.

What is it called when you refuse to answer a question in court?

shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself…." Therefore, refusing to answer questions during a trial ("I refuse to answer on the ground it may tend to incriminate me") is called "taking the Fifth." See also: Bill of Rights taking the Fifth.

How do you politely decline an answer?

How to politely decline
  1. Apologize first. This might seem like an odd piece of advice, especially if you objectively haven't done anything wrong. ...
  2. Don't beat around the bush. ...
  3. Use the actual word. ...
  4. Say NO twice, if you have to. ...
  5. Forward them to someone else. ...
  6. Mirror their request. ...
  7. Offer an alternative. ...
  8. Get back to them.

How do you say I have no answer?

2. Don't fear saying you don't know.
  • That's not my area, but here's what I can tell you…
  • I don't have the complete answer to your question, but I do know that…
  • I don't have all the details now, but I'll make sure to respond by…
  • I don't know but I will find out…

How do I respectfully say no?

The following phrases can be useful for politely refusing something that doesn't sound like a good fit.
  1. “This isn't something I'm comfortable with.”
  2. “I'm going to take a step back at this point.”
  3. “I don't think I'm the best person to take this on.”
  4. “I appreciate the opportunity, but it's not the right fit for me.”

What is it called when you don't want to answer a question?

Question dodging. This may occur when the person questioned either does not know the answer and wants to avoid embarrassment, or when the person is being interrogated or questioned in debate, and wants to avoid giving a direct response. ... This can lead the person questioned to be accused of "dodging the question".

What to say when you don t have an answer to a question?

“That's a good question, but I don't have a thoughtful answer at this moment. I will be sure to follow up after the interview.” In a quick email, let the interviewer know that you considered their question important enough to follow up on.

When someone refuses to answer your question?

First, when you are faced with a random non-answerer, look for cues about where your question might have missed the mark. Maybe it was too personal. Maybe “What's new” was pretty terrible, and your question wasn't that innocent after all. You might also be asking the question at the wrong time.

When you don't want to answer a question?

You can also refuse to answer the question, but be sure to be polite. “Say, 'I appreciate that this is of interest but we don't feel sharing the information is appropriate, especially at this time. But I'd be glad to answer other questions if you have them,'” says Sullivan.

Can you answer I don't know in court?

“I don't know” or “I don't remember” are acceptable answers, but guessing can get you into trouble on cross. examination. Remember.

What happens if you refuse to speak in court?

Refusing to testify as a witness after being served with a subpoena in a criminal case can lead to serious consequences. The court may hold the individual in contempt of court, which can result in both imprisonment and a court-imposed fine.