What to say when you don't want to answer a question in court?

Asked by: Misael Larkin  |  Last update: February 3, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (17 votes)

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 refuse to answer a question in court?

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.

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 do you deflect questions you don't want to answer?

Instead, you can simply ignore the question; you can say ``No, thank you'', which is unexpected enough to temporarily stun the questioner; You can say ``I'm not comfortable answering that''; You can pretend you mis-heard it and answer a different question You can attack the premise by saying ``Seriously?''

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

25 related questions found

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.

What is the magic phrase to defeat nosy questions?

In a calm, neutral tone, simply say, “I'd rather not talk about it," he suggested. Dr. Gunnia likes this phrase because it can be used in many different settings, and it sets a limit “but feels less vulnerable than saying 'That's personal,' or 'I'm uncomfortable,'” he said.

What should you avoid saying in court?

What NOT to Say while Testifying
  • Don't lie. This seems to be common sense, but it has to be said. ...
  • Don't guess. If you don't know the answer, say so. ...
  • Don't talk about your character. ...
  • Don't call other witnesses liars.

Do you have to answer every question in court?

The rules for depositions vary by state and in federal court, but generally, the deponent must answer every question presented, regardless of objection, unless the answer is protected by a privilege or a court order.

How do you say you don't remember in court?

If you do not know the answer, it is okay to say; 'I don't know' or 'I don't remember. ' Answer only the question that is being asked.

How do you respectfully decline to answer?

On the advice of counsel, I invoke my fifth amendment privilege against self-incrimination and respectfully decline to answer your question.” Your 5th Amendment right to remain silent and your 6th Amendment right to counsel is explained in the Miranda rights warning read by officers before a custodial interrogation.

What to say when you can't answer a question?

Stay cool and respond with some of the sample phrases suggested above, or positive statements such as:
  • That's an excellent question to which I'll owe you an answer.
  • Your question speaks to something I'll explore in the future. ...
  • That's an important question that I can't answer right now.

Is it legal to say I don't answer questions?

Do I have to answer questions asked by law enforcement officers? No. You have the constitutional right to remain silent.

Can I say no to a deposition?

In some cases, the court may order that the party that did not attend the deposition cannot introduce certain matters in evidence, or might even render judgment by default against the disobedient party. Other penalties may also exist, so talk to your attorney before you decide to refuse a deposition.

How do you deny a question?

No matter who's asking what, you can decline an awkward question politely by telling them that they have made you uncomfortable, and then shift to another topic. For instance, if you are asked to speak about your former partner, you can say: "I feel very emotional about the breakup, so I'd rather not talk about it.

Is refusing to answer questions obstruction of justice?

The short answer is NO. Refusing to answer questions (your Right to Remain Silent) is a Constitutional Right. You can not be charged with obstructing justice by exercising one or more of your Constitutional Rights.

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.

Can you decline to answer in court?

Privilege Against Self-Incrimination

Individuals can refuse to answer questions if responses might incriminate them. Courts uphold this right to prevent self-incrimination during depositions.

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.

What not to tell a judge?

Here are five things all defendants will want to avoid saying to a criminal judge:
  • 'I Did It. ' ...
  • 'They Didn't Tell Me...' ...
  • Expletives. ...
  • Lies, Lies, Lies. ...
  • 'I Will Represent Myself.

What words not to use in court?

The Bad Word List, also known as the anti-reptile word list, includes: always, never, must, required, every, any, safety, priority, prevent, and violate, among others. Each word eliminates judgment and circumstances and can trap witnesses.

Can you refuse to speak in court?

You are a defendant in a criminal case – As an extension of the Fifth Amendment, any criminal defendant cannot be forced to testify in a courtroom. You should definitely consult with an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer for San Francisco, CA.

How do you evade 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.

How to shut down intrusive questions?

Relationships + Dating
  1. I'd like to keep that information between me and [person].
  2. I appreciate your concern, but this is a sensitive topic for me and I'm not ready to share.
  3. Right now, I am enjoying where I'm at.
  4. I'll update you when I feel comfortable doing so.
  5. I'd rather discuss something else.

How to deflect nosey questions?

You don't owe anyone your personal information, especially not to satisfy their curiosity. Here are a few ways to sidestep nosy questions: To someone who asks how much money you make: “Trust me, not even close to what I'm worth.” To someone who asks about your love life: “I'd rather not discuss it right now.