Cross-Examination on a Witness Statement

Cross-Examination on a Witness Statement by The Advocates’ Society explains how to plan and run effective affidavit and out-of-court examinations. It keeps core rules constant: cross only if it helps your theory, set clear objectives, use tight leading questions, avoid compound or open-ended prompts, and build a clean, usable transcript. It stresses preparation: master the record, research the witness, separate firsthand knowledge from information and belief, and secure sources and documents in advance. It covers tactics for heavier objections and counsel interference, including putting conduct on the record and preventing drift into discovery. It contrasts in-person and remote practices, highlighting control of documents, turn-taking, and disclosure of who is present. It flags practical points on hearsay challenges, scope discipline, readable pacing, and meeting Brown v. Dunn where evidence is by affidavit.