California Private Investigator Practice Exam

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What is the initial questioning of a witness in a criminal trial called?

Cross examination
Direct examination
Redirect examination
Re-examination

The correct answer is: Direct examination

The initial questioning of a witness in a criminal trial is known as direct examination. During this phase, the attorney who has called the witness to the stand asks open-ended questions to elicit the witness's account of events. The focus is on allowing the witness to provide their testimony in a narrative form without leading questions, which helps establish the facts of the case. Direct examination is crucial because it is the attorney’s opportunity to present evidence that supports their argument and builds the credibility of their witness. The effectiveness of the direct examination can significantly influence how the jury perceives the witness and the overall case. In contrast, other types of examination, such as cross examination, follow after the direct examination and involve questioning by the opposing attorney, often with the aim of challenging the witness's testimony.