Cross-Examination: When Did You Stop Beating...?

Cross-Examination: When Did You Stop Beating...?

 

Charge: murder. Defendant: D. Victim: Mr. D. M.O.: shotgun wound to the body. Eyewitnesses: none. Defense: alibi. At trial the prosecution makes out a prima facie case and rests. D takes the stand and on direct questioning maintains her complete innocence. On cross-examination the following questions are asked by the district attorney:

Q: What had your husband done to cause you to kill him? ...
Q: Did you have any reason for taking that man's life that you said you loved? ...
Q: Can you give the jury any reason why you shot your husband and killed him? ...
Q: Did he threaten you? ...
Q: Did he draw a gun?
Just answer yes or no....

Defense counsel objects to these questions. What ruling and why?

Copyright © 2024 The President and Fellows of Harvard College * Accessibility * Support * Request Access * Terms of Use