NCJ Number
155785
Date Published
1993
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This manual discuss the traffic officer's role offering testimony in court, with emphasis on methods of enhancing the effectiveness of testimony and the differences in simple hearings, proceedings involving a magistrate without a jury, and jury trials.
Abstract
Individual sections focus on the role of the traffic officer, preparation prior to a trial, documentation, general court situations, topics that should be covered in a police report, general guidelines for witnesses, and the presentation of facts. Additional sections cover the handling of direct examination by the prosecutor, cross- examination by the defense attorney, and considerations involved in specific types of proceedings. The guidelines emphasize that the substance of the testimony as well as the police officer's conduct and demeanor have a major impact on the court and the jury. Therefore, police officers must be able to testify in a professional, clear, and understandable manner. Photographs, checklist, and 7 references