Cross examination is a critical part of any criminal trial. But did you know that only 2% of criminal charges make it to trial? Despite these low numbers, a skilled trial lawyer can arrange better plea deals for his clients, because prosecutors in the D.A.’s office take the threat of going to trial against him in the courtroom more seriously. By mastering cross examination, any trial lawyer has a much better chance of convincing the jury to acquit his client with a not guilty verdict.
1. Be brief. Think of cross examination as a commando raid, not a prolonged invasion. Get in, make as few points as possible, then get out.
2. Only ask leading questions. Unlike on direct, on cross you should only ask leading questions that develop your narrative, not that of the opposing side’s witness. Keep their answers short.
3. Only ask questions you know the answer to. Don’t ask a clever sounding question that invites an answer that is fatal to your client’s case.
4. Stop one question too soon, saving your final hard-hitting points for closing.
5. Don’t quarrel with the witness. Juries find it unseemly. Instead, just sit down and save your arguments for cross. Juries will find this approach more authoritative than if you stoop to bickering.
If you have a criminal matter that would benefit from an aggressive legal defense by a lawyer who has won at trial, contact the Law Office of Walker Fults right away for a free consultation.
