What do films such as My Cousin Vinny, Chicago, The Pink Panther and Ghostbusters II have in common? Great (and not-so-great) examples of witness examinations. Come hear a veteran litigator teach us how to effectively conduct direct and cross examinations – and improve your questioning acumen while you laugh!
General Principles of Witness Examination
Role in Juror Decision-Making
Preparation
(follow the jury instructions, follow the trail theme,
consider credibility)
Stand and Deliver
Direct Examination Principles
Framing Questions
(open-ended, journalist questions, commands,
transitions, headlines,involve the jury,
“double direct” exam, pushback)
Structure (chronological, primacy, bury the bad, order,
rules of repetition)
Delivery
Exhibits and Props
Witness Preparation
Cross Examination Principles
Framing Questions
(the Ten Commandments, leading questions, logical
progression, staying with the trial theme,
aiming toward final argument)
Structure (Feints and misdirection, primacy)
Delivery (Demeanor, follow-up, respect the witness,
eye contact, sympathetic witness)
Impeachment Techniques (Observation, hearing,
recollection, motive, bias)
Prior Inconsistencies (Commit, credit, confront, confirm)
Handling the Artful Dodger
COST: LCBA Member $140.00*
Non-Member $160.00*
*This total includes the $5 surcharge for credit card payments.
Spitzer Conference Center
Lorain County Community College
1005 North Abbe Road
Elyria, OH 44035
Mail Registrations to:
LCBA
627 W Broad Street
Elyria, OH 44035
Call for Credit Cards: 440-323-8416
Cancellation Policy: Individuals canceling up to 48 hours prior to the date of the seminar will be issued a credit for attending a future seminar. Those not attending or those leaving early will receive the course materials in full consideration of the seminar fee paid.
