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Category: Cross Examination

EXAMPLES FROM TRIALS INVOLVING APARTHEID

EXAMPLES FROM TRIALS INVOLVING APARTHEID

I have been reading a book written by Martin Meredith Nelsen Mandela. One of the chapters deals with the arrest of dozens of South Africans who were resisting apartheid. Charges of conspiracy against the government had been filed against 156 defendants. Vernon Berrange was one of the defense lawyers. His opening address is a good illustration of the need for us to elevate our case above just the interests of our client and demonstrate how it impacts a far more important…

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THOUGHTS ABOUT CROSS EXAMINATION OF EXPERTS

THOUGHTS ABOUT CROSS EXAMINATION OF EXPERTS

Often we find ourselves most apprehensive about one kind of cross examination – that of experts. Usually it’s because we have learned from experience that this class of witness rarely is there as an objective scientist or qualified expert. Rather, they see their role as co-counsel to the lawyer who hired them. An advocate for the side that paid paid them to become an expert. When you combine that attitude with experience in being cross examined, certain tactics are often developed by…

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DEPOSITION TIPS & AN IDEA ABOUT CROSS EXAMINATION

DEPOSITION TIPS & AN IDEA ABOUT CROSS EXAMINATION

I’m still in Scottsdale undergoing therapy following a failed knee revision surgery so I’ve not kept this current as  I usually do. However,  here are some thoughts about deposition and cross examination for you to consider T. Evan Schaeffer has written a very good outline of deposition practice tips for taking a deposition. “Forgetful witnesses, spotting liars, difficult opposing counsel and more” Written for the less experienced lawyer, it is nevertheless worth reading. See: http://www.jamespublishing.com/articles_forms/civillitigation/deposition_practice_tips.htm I think  lawyers have problems…

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