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Your first time giving testimony as a witness. | Ryan C. Young | Richmond, Virginia Attorney

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnm8K-igOW8?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

Tips for appearing as a witness (giving testimony):

  1. If you are represented by counsel, talk to your attorney about your concerns.
  2. Don’t simply “blurt out” the answers.  It’s perfectly acceptable to take your time.  Think about the question before answering.
  3. Ask your attorney to prep with you in advance.  Role play answering some of the questions which might likely come up.
  4. Don’t give more information than the attorney is asking of you.  Sometimes one word answers are perfectly acceptable.
  5. If you don’t understand the question, let the attorney know.  Sometimes attorneys ask questions which are overly broad and difficult to understand.
  6. Don’t become combative with opposing counsel.  I have seen this happen and it reflect poorly on your testimony.  You have to stay cool, calm and collected.
  7. If you don’t know the answer, say so.  
  8. Relax.  You will have butterflies in your stomach when you start, but it will be over before you know it.  Court is a stressful event for most people.  You’ll get through it with flying colors.
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