Defense attorneys are always looking for and exploiting potential weaknesses in their opponent’s case in litigation. They know that winning the case is all about who has the best strategy. One of the best ways to reduce how much impact a potential attack will have is to prepare an expert witness for trial.
This article discusses some of the most effective tips for preparing our expert witness for trial. You can help your witness be better prepared for the opponent’s cross-examination during the trial, increasing their chances of success.
Ensure They Know the Facts
Your expert witness must be up to date on the facts of the case to help them give accurate testimony. In addition, you should inform them of potential cross-examination questions and help them prepare to answer the questions. Also, clearly explain your legal position to the expert witness so they can understand what you are trying to prove.
The essence of all these is to help your witness carve their testimony in such a way that will support your argument. Otherwise, their testimony may be ineffective or harm your case more than good. The expert cannot regurgitate information; they must digest it and form their opinions to give accurate and complete testimony.
Train Them to Stay Calm During Their Testimony
Fights between witnesses and the opposing counsel are common in the courtroom, and avoiding them takes a lot of willpower. As difficult as it may be, your witness must stay calm no matter how much the opposition provokes them. A heated exchange with the opposing counsel negatively reflects their credibility, harming your case.
Therefore, before your expert witness takes the stand, review potential cross-examination questions with them. Let them train with you to keep their emotions in check and not bow to provocation. Then, they can stay calm when provoked and focus on giving their testimony.
Ensure They Can Communicate Well
The effect your expert witness’s testimony will have on the jury or judge will depend on how effectively they can communicate it. Therefore, if you intend to bring an expert witness to help your case, ensure they can communicate their thoughts effectively. Usually, this means utilizing the most effective communication methods, speaking loudly but slowly and with a smile.
Also, before you allow them to take the stand, ensure you have communicated the importance of their testimony to them. They must understand how much impact their testimony can have on the case. The adequate preparation of an expert witness is non-negotiable to the success of a case, as they are valuable. Therefore, adequately prepare your expert witness on the best way to communicate their testimony before the judge or jury.
Conclusion
An expert witness is a valuable asset to any legal team in the courtroom if the lawyer can take the time to prepare them. Putting them on the stand without adequate preparation could ruin the case. Not preparing your expert witness before letting them take the stand may mean scoring a goal for the opponent.
These tips are efficient when you have an expert witness you want to call to prove your case in court. “You can rest assured that your expert witness can handle themself in the face of provocation,” says attorney Ryan Brown of J. Ryan Brown Law. Also, you can ensure they are adequately prepared to provide complete and effective testimony that will support your case.