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What does cross-examination aim to do?

  1. Establish facts in favor of the opposing party

  2. Elicit the truth from the witness

  3. Clarify statements made in direct examination

  4. Summarize the case for the jury

The correct answer is: Clarify statements made in direct examination

The primary aim of cross-examination is to clarify statements made during direct examination. This process allows the opposing attorney to delve deeper into the testimony provided by a witness, ensuring that any ambiguities or unclear points are addressed. By asking specific, targeted questions, the attorney has the opportunity to challenge the witness's earlier statements, providing an avenue to clear up any inconsistencies and ensuring that the jury fully understands the evidence being presented. While eliciting the truth from the witness is an important aspect of cross-examination, the focus is more on testing the credibility and reliability of the witness's statements rather than simply drawing out truth. Establishing facts in favor of the opposing party is not a goal of cross-examination; rather, it seeks to undermine or question the opposing party's evidence. Summarizing the case for the jury typically occurs at the end of the trial during closing arguments, rather than through the cross-examination process.