Objections 101
What is the Objection when a witness give a long story-like answer instead of directly responding?
Narration
This type of witness testifies about what they personally saw or experienced.
Fact Witness
Who is responsible for keeping order and ensuring the trial runs fairly?
The Judge
What should a witness do when an attorney objects during their answer?
Stop talking immediately.
“He told me that the defendant looked guilty.”
Hearsay
What objection stops a witness from guessing about something they don’t actually know?
Speculation
This type of witness can give opinions because of specialized training or experience.
Expert Witness
Who represents the state or government in a criminal trial?
The Prosecution
How should you address the judge when answering?
“Yes, Your Honor” or “No, Your Honor.”
“I think the light was red because it usually is at that time of day.”
Speculation
What objection is made when a witness says what someone else told them?
Hearsay
This type of witness testifies about a person’s reputation or personality.
Character Witness
Who decides questions of law, and who decides questions of fact?
The judge decides questions of law; the jury decides questions of fact.
What’s the difference between direct examination and cross-examination in terms of the witness’s role?
On direct, the witness supports their side’s narrative and should avoid volunteering extra info; on cross, stay calm, answer concisely, and don’t argue.
“Wouldn’t you agree that the suspect was running away because he was guilty?”
Argumentative
What objection prevents an attorney from asking a question that suggests the answer on direct examination?
Leading
What must be established before an expert witness can give an opinion?
Their qualifications or foundation
Who ensures the official record of everything said in the courtroom is preserved, often reading back testimony when requested?
The Court Reporter
During a tense cross-examination, the opposing attorney is trying to trap you into saying something you’re unsure about. What should you do?
Stay composed, ask for clarification if a question is confusing, and only answer what you know for sure. It’s better to pause or say “I don’t recall” than to guess or argue.
“How fast were you driving, 40 miles per hour?” (on direct)
Leading
What objection prevents a witness from giving their opinion without being an expert?
Improper Opinion / Lack of Foundation
What type of witness is not allowed to give an opinion unless asked about their expertise?
Character or Fact Witness
If the judge appears skeptical of your testimony, but the jury looks sympathetic, who should you focus your answers towards, and why?
Focus your answers toward the jury, because they are the finders of fact—your credibility and clarity directly influence their verdict. You must maintain respect for the judge but communicate naturally and confidently to the jury.
If your attorney objects but the judge overrules the objection, and you were mid-answer, what’s the most professional next move?
Continue answering calmly from where you left off, showing no visible reaction to the ruling. Maintaining composure and neutrality signals credibility to the jury and professionalism to the court.
“The defendant has always been a terrible driver.”
Character Evidence