Avoiding the Wrecking Ball of a Disastrous Cross Examination: Nine Principles for Effective Cross Examinations with Supporting Empirical Evidence

Abstract

Effective cross-examinations share the following three hallmarks: they recognize and strive only for realistic goals, they maintain witness control, and they cultivate and maintain rapport with the jurors. This article posits nine principles central to achieving these three overarching goals. Each goal is supported by empirical research and each principle is examined and illustrated.

Keywords: cross Examination, empirical evidence, evidence, witness, juror, jury