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To ask for clarification, to expose weaknesses in the argument or evidence, to discredit the witness, or to elicit facts favorable to the party the cross-examiner is representing.

"Indeed, cross-examination is arguably the essential, if not sole, purpose of a criminal trial. Opening statements, the importance of which so many lawyers underestimate, is the foundation of effective cross-examination. The opening is where the lawyer not only provides the jury with the defense's version of the facts, but details how he will cross-examine prosecution witnesses. If the lawyer wastes the invaluable opportunity afforded by the opening, leaves critical "facts" unchallenged, neglects to cite examples of the witness's duplicity, and fails to tell the jury how he will cross-examine the witnesses, it's unlikely the jury will grasp the significance of otherwise effective cross-examination."

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Peyton Beahan

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2y ago
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AnswerBot

1d ago

The purpose of cross-examination is to challenge the credibility, reliability, and accuracy of a witness's testimony given during direct examination. It allows the opposing party to ask questions that may reveal inconsistencies, biases, or gaps in the witness's account, ultimately helping to uncover the truth and present a more complete picture of the facts to the decision-maker.

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13y ago

In court, the two main purposes of cross-examination are, first, to establish and advance your own case, such as to overcome, qualify and/or explain; and second, to attack the other side's case, such as credibility, knowledge, and recollection of the witness(es).

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Q: What is the purpose of cross- examination?
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During what stage of a trial do direct examination and cross examination occur?

Direct examination and cross examination occur during the trial phase known as the presentation of evidence.


Which is more important direct-examination or cross-examination?

Both direct-examination and cross-examination are important in a trial. Direct-examination allows the attorney to present their case and their witness's testimony, while cross-examination gives the opposing attorney the opportunity to challenge the witness's credibility and testimony. They both serve different purposes in the trial process and are equally important.


What is the term for the examination of a witness by the attorney who calls the witness to the stand to testify on behalf of the attorney's client?

The attorney who calls the witness conducts a direct examination. The opposing attorney may then conduct a cross examination. The first attorney may then conduct a redirect exam, whereupon the opposing attorney may conduct a recross exam.


What does redirect exam testimony mean?

Redirect exam testimony refers to the process in which an attorney asks follow-up questions to a witness after cross-examination by the opposing attorney. The purpose is to clarify or correct any points that may have been raised during cross-examination, and to further support the witness's credibility and the case's narrative.


What is the advantages of cross examination?

Cross examination allows for challenging the credibility and accuracy of witness testimony, exposing inconsistencies, bias, or errors. It also provides the opportunity to highlight weaknesses in the opposing party's case and to elicit new information that may support your own arguments. Additionally, cross examination can help shape the narrative of the case and steer the direction of the trial.