15.1 - II. General Purposes And Goals Of Cross-Examination

JurisdictionNew York

II. GENERAL PURPOSES AND GOALS
OF CROSS-EXAMINATION

More often than not, the defendant does not testify. With the exception of cases involving alibi or character witnesses, the direct proof utilized by the defense in its case is generally minimal to nonexistent. In a criminal trial, therefore, cross-examination is not only the greatest challenge for the defense lawyer but frequently may provide the only “proof” available to the defense.2094

The objectives of cross-examination are to establish areas of agreement favorable to or consistent with the lawyer’s case; to discredit the testimony of the witness; to discredit the witness...

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