Some lawyers dream of conducting a blistering cross examination. Others of delivering a compelling, emotionally charged closing argument. But few lawyers dream of planning, preparing and conducting a direct examination. In fact, direct examination may be the most underestimated part of trial.
It may also be the most important, because the truth is many, if not most, cases are won or lost on direct examination. It is during direct examination that the parties present their affirmative cases, that the witnesses provide their versions of the events and that the judge and jury first hear from the witnesses. While other parts of the trial may be more dramatic, none matters more than direct examination. This article offers 11 tips for conducting it effectively.
