Identification of Hostile Witnesses
Identifying hostile witnesses is crucial for lawyers during legal proceedings.
1. Behavioral Cues: Attorneys closely watch the witness’s behavior on the stand. Hostile witnesses often display signs of antagonism, like crossing their arms, rolling their eyes, or glaring. Their tone and demeanor may also show defiance or evasion, indicating they’re not willing to cooperate.
2. Inconsistent Testimony: Lawyers carefully review the witness’s previous statements for any contradictions. Hostile witnesses might change their story or give conflicting information during questioning. This inconsistency undermines their credibility and reliability.
3. Resistance to Questioning: Hostile witnesses push back against the lawyer’s questions. They may avoid answering directly, give vague responses, or argue with the attorney. This resistance shows their hostility and prompts lawyers to adjust their strategies, like using more aggressive tactics to challenge their credibility.