Criminology Term: Re-direct Examination
In the criminal justice system, there is a crucial stage of questioning known as re-direct examination. This is when the prosecution gets the chance to ask follow-up questions after a witness has been cross-examined by the defense attorney.
The goal of this examination is to clarify any issues that may have arisen during the cross-examination and to reinforce the prosecution's case.
It's important to note that during re-direct examination, the prosecutor can only ask questions related to topics that were discussed during the cross-examination.
The questions are aimed at clarifying any points that were not fully explored or to refute any inconsistencies or inaccuracies introduced during the cross-examination.
This stage is shorter than the initial examination and cross-examination, but it's a critical stage of the trial. It gives the prosecution a chance to repair any damage that may have been done to their case during cross-examination.
The rules of evidence and courtroom decorum still apply during re-direct examination.
