Unless this has become the standard or conduct at the Congress yet again, the two not so gentle gentlemen might want to review their conduct or behavior because it was quite disturbing to listen to them berate a "guest," interrogate her in the same manner seasoned lawyers try to discredit a witness and
lead the witness to establish her lack of credibility or ill motive.
lead the witness in a way that introduces an error into the
In addition to giving the witness context as to where the witness' testimony will ultimately fit in the case, providing this information prepares the witness to address questions from plaintiff's counsel that attempt to
lead the witness into providing testimony that is really outside of the witness' knowledge.
Short direct questions
lead the witness to the exact topic of discussion, and allow the witness to explain this portion of the industry in his own words, telling a story from the mouth of the witness rather than from counsel.
Therefore, great care should be taken not to
lead the witness, and to ensure that the witness is testifying truthfully.
By carefully constructing questions, then intently listening to the witness's answer, the great cross-examiner can use that answer to
lead the witness to give testimony favorable to the client's case.
Highlight important testimony by having the witness explain testimony that may be confusing to the panel.(13) One method of emphasizing important testimony is to begin with a broad overview, then
lead the witness back through the testimony in more detail.
Restrictions on cross-examination: The defence counsel could not ask any questions which might
lead the witnesses into identifying themselves.
