I need some help for a mock trial in class.
I am supposed to write a direct examination for a man by the name of Farley on the plaintiff. I read on the internet that direct examinations are conducted by the attorney on the witness's side. But I also read the goal of the direct examination is to produce evidence...this makes it sound like you're trying to incriminate the witness. Why would the attorney on the witness's side try to incriminate the witness? What is the purpose of the direct examination then?
In a mock trial or a real trial, the purpose of the direct examination is not to incriminate the witness, but rather to present evidence and facts that support the case of the party calling the witness. The direct examination is conducted by the attorney who represents the side that called the witness, in this case, the attorney for the plaintiff.
During a direct examination, the attorney asks open-ended questions to allow the witness to provide testimony and tell their side of the story. The goal is to guide the witness through their narrative and elicit important information and evidence that supports the party's case.
The purpose of the direct examination is to present the witness's version of events, establish their credibility, and introduce evidence into the trial. By allowing the witness to testify directly, the attorney can control the narrative, highlight key points, and build a strong case by presenting evidence that supports their side of the argument.
It is important to note that during direct examination, the attorney is expected to ask questions that are non-leading, meaning they should not suggest the answer or influence the witness. The goal is to let the witness testify based on their personal knowledge and experience without suggestion or interference.
So, in summary, the direct examination is not about incriminating the witness but rather about presenting evidence, establishing credibility, and highlighting important facts that support the case of the party calling the witness.