The Art of Witness Preparation: How to Prepare Your Witnesses to Testify Effectively at Civil Trials, Hearings, and Depositions

This Aspatore legal title provides guidance on preparing witnesses to testify effectively and persuasively at civil trials, hearings, and depositions. Unlike most literature devoted to trial advocacy, this book focuses on the witness's performance in the courtroom, instead of the lawyer's, addressing an often-neglected angle for the civil trial attorney. The author divides witness preparation into seven distinct parts: (1) the witness interview; (2) explaining deposition procedures; (3) explaining trial and hearing procedures; (4) preparing the witness for cross-examination; (5) preparing the witness for direct examination; (6) discussing witness appearance and demeanor; and (7) role playing and practice.