What questions should I ask the defendant in court?

• What are the charges against me? - Ask for a clear explanation of the charges and what they mean.
• What are the potential consequences if I am convicted? - Understand the possible penalties, including jail time, fines, or probation.
• What is the strength of the evidence against me?

• 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 are leading questions in court?

A leading question is a question that suggests a particular answer and contains information the examiner is looking to have confirmed. The use of leading questions in court to elicit testimony is restricted in order to reduce the ability of the examiner to direct or influence the evidence presented.

Does the defendant have to talk?

In a small claims court in California, it is not necessary for the defendant to speak in court, but it is generally in their best interest to do so if they wish to present their side of the case.

What not to say in court?

Don't mumble; speak loudly enough to be heard by everyone in the room. 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.

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 to say when you don t want to answer a question in court?

If you don't want to answer a question, don't ask the judge whether you must answer it. If it is an improper question, the prosecutor trying the case will object and take it up with the judge. If there is no objection, answer the question.

How do you impress a judge in court?

Dress professionally and appropriately. It is not necessary to dress like a lawyer, but conservative and “business casual” is a good rule. Do wear tidy clothing and groom yourself neatly. You want to be taken seriously by the judge.

What does a judge want to hear?

The judge will normally want to hear first from the claimant (the person who started the case, or made the application) then the defendant (the per- son disputing it). Seeing a person give evidence helps the judge de- cide whether that person is telling the truth.

What are Judgemental questions?

These are questions that imply judgement. Sometimes it's a statement rather than a question itself but the tone implies judgement on your behalf. 'Why do you think that? ' can be seen as judgemental and 'why' questions in general that are directed at a person can be seen as judgemental.

What are good questions for a judge?

What are good interrogation questions?

Also, a good investigator should focus on asking short, to-the-point questions such as “Who told you that?” and “What did she say to you?” and “Where were you during this conversation?” and “How did that make you feel?” and “What happened next?” Remember, a good investigator will resist the urge to tell a witness what ...

What are some legal questions?

Can I say I don't remember in court?

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. Do not guess if you are not sure, unless you are instructed to give an estimate.

What are good deposition questions?

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.”

What to never say to a judge?

What colors are best to wear to court?

It's best to avoid bright colors. Whether you're a plaintiff or a defendant, dark or neutral colors like white, navy blue, and gray are the best colors to wear to court. Your attorney can offer guidance if you're unsure about what you're wearing.

Is it OK to be nervous in court?

If you have to go to court, it's OK to feel scared. Adults get scared about court, too.

What happens if you refuse to say anything in court?

If you avoid this, you could be held in contempt and face incarceration, fines, or fees. To ensure your rights and interests is in good hands throughout a court proceeding, you may want to reach out to a lawyer who has experience in the courtroom.

How do you know if a case is being built against you?

If if the state you refer to is in the US, you could try calling the local public defender's office for the county where the charges would likely be filed and see if they could run your name and find out if there's a case and/or a warrant out on you.

Can you go to jail at an arraignment?

Yes, you can absolutely go to jail at an arraignment in California. An arraignment is the first court appearance after an arrest.