* To challenge the witness's credibility: This involves questioning the witness's biases, motives, perceptions, memory, and overall truthfulness. A lawyer might try to show the witness is lying, mistaken, or has a reason to be untruthful.
* To expose inconsistencies: Cross-examination aims to highlight discrepancies between the witness's testimony and other evidence presented, prior statements made by the witness, or even inconsistencies within the witness's own testimony.
* To elicit favorable testimony: While primarily used to challenge, cross-examination can also be used to extract information that supports the cross-examiner's case, even from a witness who initially testified for the opposing party.
* To control the narrative: By carefully selecting questions and challenging the witness's answers, the cross-examiner can shape the jury's or judge's perception of the witness and the evidence.
Key aspects of cross-examination:
* Leading questions: Unlike direct examination (where the examining attorney asks open-ended questions), cross-examination largely relies on leading questions. These are questions that suggest the desired answer within the question itself (e.g., "You were at the scene of the crime, weren't you?").
* Objections: The attorney conducting direct examination can object to improper questions or lines of questioning during cross-examination (e.g., asking questions that are irrelevant, argumentative, or call for speculation). The judge will rule on the objections.
* Scope: While cross-examination can cover the witness's direct testimony, the scope is generally limited to matters addressed during the direct examination. However, there are exceptions and subtleties in practice.
* Impeachment: A significant aspect of cross-examination is impeachment, which is the process of discrediting a witness's testimony. This can be done by presenting contradictory evidence, showing prior inconsistent statements, or highlighting the witness's lack of credibility.
Cross-examination is a complex legal skill requiring strategic thinking, careful planning, and a thorough understanding of evidence rules. It is often considered one of the most important aspects of a trial, as it allows for a rigorous testing of the evidence and witnesses presented.