How to Be a Witness in Court

Whether you are a key witness to a murder trial or a bystander to a shoplifting crime, your testimony should be well-executed and well-presented. Follow these steps to being a witness in court.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Men's Dress Shoes
• Men's Suits
• Neckties
• Women's Dress Shoes
• Women's Suits

1. Dress simply, but appropriately - no fad clothing or jewelry. Avoid wearing too much makeup.

2. Arrive on time.

3. Face the person interrogating you and make eye contact with the interrogator and with the jury if you are testifying before a jury.

4. Keep your voice modulated and speak so everyone in the courtroom can hear you.

5. Speak clearly and slowly. If you take the time to get your breath, you will sound more credible.

6. Answer the questions posed without volunteering additional information. If you need to elaborate to explain an answer more fully, then politely seek permission from the court or the examining attorney to do so.

7. Follow the judge's instruction as to when to answer should there be a controversial question that has been objected to by one of the attorneys.

8. Avoid slang or trite expressions. Speak the language to the best of your abliity. Never use profanity or epithets unless you are being questioned on what someone said who did swear or use disparaging language.

9. Tell the truth. You're under oath. Your integrity and, perhaps, your freedom are at stake.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are repeating what someone else said, then do so only when asked. This, by the way, is what is referred to as "hearsay." It may or may not be given full credibility.

• Avoid doing anything to distract from your testimony.