1. Courtroom Testimony

2. Preparation Before Court

3. Review notes and reports beforehand Have a legal knowledge of the case Bring notes with you to court Bring exhibits with you to court Wear appropriate attire

4. Demeanor in the Courtroom

5. Arrive in advance of scheduled time

6. Demeanor in the Courtroom Give that good first impression

7. Demeanor in the Courtroom Taking the oath

8. Demeanor in the Courtroom Present a modest demeanor and display a sincere interest in accuracy and truth of statements.

9. Demeanor in the Courtroom Avoid showing irritation and anger. Maintain self control.

10. Time to Take the Witness Stand

11. The first question will always be the same…

12. Time to Take the Witness Stand The first question will always be the same… “Please state your name.”

13. Time to Take the Witness Stand Speak loudly and clearly

14. Tell the Truth

15. Testify from your own personal knowledge or observation

16. Listen to the Question

17. Answer only the question

18. It’s ok to say “I don’t know”

19. Truthfully give approximations

20. Do not hesitate to acknowledge an error and correct it

21. Be calm, courteous and consistent

22. Do not volunteer unnecessary information

23. Permit yourself to be protected

24. How to Handle Cross Examination

25. Objectives of Cross Examination To weaken, qualify, destroy the case of the opponent Establish party’s own case by means of opponent’s witnesses

26. Common Cross Examination Techniques Mispronunciation of your name Standing close to witness Dwelling on insignificant details Rapid fire questioning

27. Common Cross Examination Techniques Flattery / Friendly Repeating the same question Long periods of silence Alleging or insinuating contradictions by other witnesses

28. Common Cross Examination Techniques Have you discussed the facts of the case? Inviting argument Misleading the witness Condescending

29. Refreshing Recollection: An exception to the hearsay rule If witness once knew something but cannot recall it during direct examination, the trial court may allow the witness’s recollection to be refreshed by reference to the police report.

30. Refreshing Recollection 1 st show that the witness has knowledge but cannot recall facts. 2 nd show that the witness needs to use a writing to revive his memory. (Writing need not be written by witness.) 3 rd witness is now able to testify independently of writing.

31. Recorded Recollection 1.Witness once had personal knowledge of the matters recorded. 2.Record sought to be admitted was made by the witness at or near the time the events occurred. 3.Record is accurate and trustworthy account of events it describes. 4.Witness lacks current recollection of the events in question.