How can an attorney cross-examine a witness in a criminal defense case?

Cross-examination is an important part of a criminal defense case. During cross-examination, an attorney can challenge the witness’s testimony by asking questions that expose the weaknesses or inconsistencies in their story. In Indiana, the attorney can ask questions that are not related to the topic of the witness’s testimony in order to attack their credibility. For instance, an attorney may ask questions that suggest a potential witness has a hidden agenda, or has been coached by the prosecution on their testimony. The attorney may also ask leading questions, such as, “Didn’t you see the defendant commit the crime?” This type of question implies that the witness should answer in the affirmative, and allows the attorney to try to poke holes in the witness’s testimony. The attorney may also ask questions that seem irrelevant or absurd. These types of questions may cause the witness to lose their composure, or to give an answer that goes against their testimony. The attorney can then use that answer to impeach the witness’s credibility. Cross-examination is a key part of any criminal defense case. Attorneys in Indiana can use a variety of tactics to challenge a witness’s testimony, and use their answers to build a defense strategy. It is important for attorneys to be familiar with the state’s laws in order to know which questions are allowed and which are not.

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How can an attorney cross-examine a witness in a criminal defense case?

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