How to Survive Cross-Examination at Trial

Sometimes the worst part of taking the stand at trial is the questioning period from the other lawyer. Since their point is to get all the details from you about your evidence, they can sometimes seem as if they’re trying to trick you into saying something you shouldn’t say. This is not always true; sometimes it’s the nervousness of the witness that causes confusion and mind blanks. Here are some suggestions on how to survive cross-examination.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Always tell the truth. You can’t get tripped up if what you’re saying is true.
2. Listen carefully to the question so you can answer it correctly.
3. If you didn’t clearly hear the question, ask the lawyer to please repeat it.
4. If you don’t understand the question, ask the lawyer to please rephrase it.
5. If you don’t know the answer to the question, say that you don’t know. Don’t guess at anything. Don’t give the impression that you’re hiding something because you’re stuttering through a question that you really don’t know the answer to. It is very likely that you won’t know the answer to every single question, so don’t guess at one.
6. Don’t look to anyone in the courtroom for help with your answers.
7. Dress comfortable, not suggestive or offensive. Don’t chew gum or candies.