How to Withstand the Rigors of the Courtroom: Maximizing Your Effectiveness as a Witness (From Crimes Against Children Conference, P 43-56, 2000 -- See NCJ-186616)

• NCJ Number: 186617
• Author(s): Lawrence J. Braunstein Esq.
• Date Published: 2000
• Length: 14 pages
• Sale Source: Dallas Police Dept; Dallas Children's Advocacy Center
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Conference Material
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This conference presentation acknowledges expert witnesses need to be prepared to testify in child abuse and neglect cases since the law requires such witnesses not only to report their suspicions of abuse and neglect but also to cooperate in the prosecution of child abuse and neglect cases in court.

Abstract

Expert witnesses need to recognize that certain trial techniques can be used to impeach them and that cross-examination techniques can discredit expert witness testimony. Expert witnesses should be prepared to answer questions about their qualifications and to respond appropriately in cross-examination. Specifically, they should be aware of making generalizations on direct testimony, remain professional, be aware of the structure of questioning, and expect varying and hypothetical questions. Guidelines are offered to help prepare expert witnesses before they testify and when they are in court and on the witness stand. In addition, procedures are outlined to help expert witnesses recognize an inexperienced or unprepared defense attorney and how to take advantage of this during cross-examination.