Cross Examination of the
Defense's Witness(es)
At this point, the prosecution can ask questions of the defense witness(es), including you, if you testified.
Note: The officer is not the prosecution. If he or she attempts to ask you or any other witness a question, object immediately and cite:
Whether or not the People provide a prosecuting attorney, the citing officer who testifies as to the circumstances of the citation is a witness, no more, no less. People v. Marcroft (1992) 6 Cal.App.4th Supp. 1 , 8 Cal.Rptr.2d 544
If the judge repeats the question the officer asked, you may wish to ask, "Excuse me your honor, was that a question from the prosecution or the judiciary?"
Remember (and remind any of your witnesses):
- Stay calm.
- Do not argue.
- Take your time answering questions.
- Answer honestly.
- Use your answers to reinforce your defense.
After the cross examination comes the closing statements.