Direct Examination: Controlling a Friendly Witness

The Trial Lawyer's Handbook

Apr 9 2024 • 7 mins

In this episode of "The Trial Lawyer's Handbook" podcast series, litigation attorney Dan Small goes over how to avoid leading questions on direct examinations while still maintaining control. Mr. Small outlines six important steps to help ensure direct examinations go the way lawyer want it to: preparation, mistakes, pace, pieces, narrative and listen. These steps help both to control the witness and guarantee that the testimony is clear, effective and engaging for the jury.