Fairfax Witness Preparation

You know the many challenges you need to overcome when preparing for trial. Preparing witnesses is often among the most challenging of these. As a lawyer, you know that witnesses have a very important part of the story you are trying to convey. During the trial, jurors will watch witnesses very closely and give a significant amount of weight to the statements they make. Jurors do all of this to determine how credible they believe a witness is.

Due to these factors and others, witnesses are commonly anxious about taking the stand. They may also have to answer questions about things that happened a long time ago, and they may be unsure about specific details. Below are some tips we use during Fairfax witness preparation to make sure your witnesses are credible and comfortable.

Begin Witness Preparation Early

It is easier for witnesses to become more comfortable with the thought of testifying when they have more time to consider the idea. To help with this, it is important to notify witnesses of the trial date once you have received it. You should also inform them that you plan to call them to testify, or that at the very least it is a possibility. Let them know when and where the trial will happen and, if possible, when you plan on calling them to testify.

Provide a General Outline Instead of a Script

As you meet with witnesses prior to the trial, provide them with an outline of the questions you may ask, as well as the questions you believe opposing counsel will ask. Include in the outline the important points you want them to address as well as the evidence they may be asked about. It is important that you do not give witnesses a script so they can answer questions naturally, boosting their credibility with the jurors.

Read Them Your Opening Statement

Your opening statement is when you will outline the theme, or main point, of your case. By reading your opening statements during witness preparation, you can make them aware of your theme so they have a better understanding of it. After witnesses understand your theme and key points, they can tailor their answers to support them.

Practice, But Not Too Much

Witnesses may feel more confident when they are on the stand if they have practiced hearing and answering the questions beforehand. While practicing you can instruct them not to provide too much information or guess about facts of the case. You can also practice difficult cross-examinations, which are often very difficult for witnesses. While practicing is important, it is just as critical that you do not practice too much. You need your witnesses to be comfortable without appearing as though they are over-rehearsed.

Our Witnesses Preparation in Fairfax Can Help You at Trial

At MGM Trial Services, Inc., our Fairfax witness preparation services can ensure that anyone you call to the stand will help your case by ensuring witnesses are credible and honest. To learn more, call us today at 410-303-7800 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with one of our team members and to learn more about how we can help with all aspects of trial preparation.