Criminology Term: Direct Questions
Direct questions are a type of questioning used during a direct examination of a witness in court. When an attorney calls a witness to testify on behalf of their client, they use direct questions to elicit testimony from the witness that supports their case.
Direct questions are usually open-ended and are intended to give the witness the opportunity to provide detailed answers that help to establish the facts of the case. They can also be used to establish the witness's credibility and expertise on a particular subject.
For example, if the witness is a forensic scientist, the attorney may ask them a series of direct questions to establish their qualifications and experience in the field of forensic science. The attorney may also ask the witness to explain the results of their analysis and how they arrived at their conclusions.
Compared to cross-examination, which is when the opposing attorney questions the witness, direct questions are generally more focused and structured.
The aim of cross-examination is usually to challenge the witness's testimony and to cast doubt on their credibility, whereas the goal of direct examination is to present evidence that supports the attorney's case.
