Direct versus Cross Examination

DIRECT: The direct always happens first in a trial.

You aren't quite trying to prove a point, but you need to show the strengths and weaknesses while emphasizing the positives.

This is like a conversation between two people, it should flow. The lawyer and the witness need to work together to create the direct.

Make sure you ask NONLEADING questions [these are broad and general]

Witnesses need to use the opportunity to "become" their character because you'll be explaining things a lot.

CROSS: The cross usually comes second in a trial

Make sure that you write your cross ahead of time, your questions should change only slightly depending on the answers your witness gives.

Only ask LEADING questions [yes or no questions, these are very specific and usually they include a fact and a confirmation]

If your direct witness is being crossed, you are his or her "protection", listen for questions you can object to.

Witness, don't be so tense. The cross examination is not an attack on you, think quickly and answer carefully.


[this is the list of pairs and the witnesses they worked with:

• Thomas and Sheena: Dr. Pat Carroll
• Christina and Jennifer: Jan Martinez
• Justin and Shayna: Dale Reynolds
• Marc and Evan: Nickie Loo
• Kimberly and Hannah: Dr. Pat Carroll]

Also, you can download/view the case materials from the links on the right column [the one that says links...]


-Sheena P