Calling Your Attention to the Direct Examination: How to Avoid the What Happened Next Question

Authors

Christina L. Hunt

Publication Date

3-1991

Document Type

Article

Abstract

When presenting a direct examination, whether it'is the testimony of your client or of another witness, you must remember one thing-prepare your case. Without preparation, a number of consequences inevitably follow:

1. you will definitely lose your client's case;
2. your client will call you every day and drive you insane;
3. your client will then proceed to the penitentiary;
4. he will say unflattering things' about you (and you will deserve it);
5. you will lose potential new clients;
6. he will file habeas corpus papers pro se;
7. he also will sue you for millions of dollars, and, he will do that pro se; and
8. most insulting of all, you will be the object of your client's preparation- he will cross-examine you with skills you had no idea he possessed and will present direct examinations with a flourish.

At that time, you should go on and place your application and resume with your local prosecutor's office.

Recommended Citation

Hunt, Christina L. (1991) "Calling Your Attention to the Direct Examination: How to Avoid the What Happened Next Question," Mercer Law Review: Vol. 42: No. 2, Article 5.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.law.mercer.edu/jour_mlr/vol42/iss2/5