NCJ Number
171186
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 66 Issue: 9 Dated: (September 1997) Pages: 1-5
Date Published
1997
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article describes cross-examination strategies for law enforcement.
Abstract
Over the course of their careers, most law enforcement officers rarely testify during actual trials. But, when they do, they routinely stumble on the witness stand because they do not anticipate the defense's questions. In order to limit defense attorneys' ability to question their findings during cross-examination, law enforcement officers should consider five general areas: (1) Know the law and understand its application; (2) Adhere to departmental policy; it usually reflects the law and failure to follow proper procedures may be grounds to suppress evidence; (3) Separate fact from opinion; (4) Review law enforcement paperwork from the defense attorney's point of view; ensure accuracy and do not include information that you have not verified; and (5) Answer questions honestly. The right time for law enforcement officers to contemplate the defense's strategy is at the beginning of an investigation, not while they are sitting on the witness stand. Notes