NCJ Number
100509
Date Published
1985
Length
476 pages
Annotation
For both law students and practicing attorneys, this text gives detailed guidelines on how to prepare witnesses to testify at trials and at depositions.
Abstract
Preliminary preparation, the importance of understanding and using psychology, and hypnosis as a method of last resort are discussed in chapters covering basic knowledge needed and initial actions required.Also highlighted are the classification and handling of different types of witnesses, important considerations in preparing and calling the client and certain other witnesses, and general and special considerations in witnesses' pretrial preparation. Additional chapters explain techniques of interrogation, advice to give the witness about general aspects of testifying in court, preparing the witness for direct examination and cross-examination, and the rehearsal and final instructions before trial. Expert witnesses and grand jury witnesses are discussed. Also noted are results of the authors' survey of 200 trial lawyers and law school professors, which yielded 75 complete responses. Survey instrument, footnotes, appendixes presenting forms, a glossary, checklists, tables of cases and authorities, and an index.