What to Do as a Witness in Court

Witnesses are the key holders of the truth. Their experiences, whether it was seen, touched, or heard, are the vital points in a trial case. If you are deemed to be a witness, you may have to share in detail the situation that happened, which can further help the judge identify the details. Even if you are a minor, you can still provide your story as a witness. It is mandatory that a person states his knowledge and answer questions. However, there are also expert witnesses who can raise out their findings of a certain test they made. A DNA test can be explained by a forensic analyst who is also considered an expert.

Before making your stand, you must consider the following guidelines to keep you on the flow of your duty. Here are some of the things you need to do and know as a court witness:

Discovery

At this point, the lawyer in charge of the case is tasked to find out all information and investigate before a formal trial. He may look for facts and potential witnesses to help proceed with the case. Both parties should also be knowledgeable and aware of each other’s discovery of truths. Your responsibility as a witness in this initial step is to provide what you know by answering the questions of lawyers, investigators, and police officers. The legal step is that officials must send a subpoena in your name first. Interrogation and deposition will follow. The two teams can now discuss their findings which can help both sides to agree on an arrangement. If not, both teams may proceed to have a court trial.

Deposition

The deposition is attended by the witness, attorney, and court reporters. In Phoenix, AZ, court reporters are known to be professionals and ethical in handling this kind of situation. Their job is to preserve your given statement. Today, there are different methods of keeping a deposition. It includes video recordings, real-time reporting, video conferences, and specialists in medical practice. Through these methods, you can now have an easier time to testify in a case. This deposition can be used by both teams to plan out their next step.

Role in Court

The specific duty of a witness is to state his testimony of what he knows about the crime. Before that, you are directed to give the oath to tell only the truth and answer questions accurately. After, you will be asked for your name, address, and occupation. The lawyers can examine you and your statements while you are in the witness box. You must answer it truthfully and precisely. You must also respect the court and the officials in charge of being courteous and polite.

Your responsibility as a witness is important in finding out the truth. It can help the judge decide on the matter at hand if he can listen to the statement and testimonials of witnesses. You may be under scrutiny for the declarations you say but remember that it is only for the benefit of the greater good.