2. Write a detailed report – Be
certain to include any statements from the
suspect or witnesses.
3. Prepare with the prosecutor – Know
what kind of hearing you are preparing for. Is
it a suppression hearing or a trial?
4. Proper demeanor on the witness stand,
at the trial table, and in the courthouse –
The jurors are always watching you. Sit
up straight and do not fidget. Always keep your
personal opinions at bay. Jurors love to
listen in on your hallway conversations.
5. Prepare to testify by reading your
report – Oftentimes, you will be questioned
by the State or Defense about specifics from
your report. Reading it before taking the stand
will eliminate any embarrassing oversights.
6. Answer the question that is asked of
you – If you do not understand what is being
asked, let the attorney know. Do not try to give
an answer that you think will help. Just tell
the truth.
7. Speak in “plain English”; try not to
use occupational lingo—Juries do not know
what a “geeker” or a “43” is. If you use a term
like that, try to define it for the jury.
8. Look for open doors in the questions
– Occasionally, an attorney will throw you a
“softball.” This is an opportunity to insert
your qualifications and experience to better
explain your answer.
9. Take responsibility for what you did
and did not do – If something was missed in
an investigation, you have already discussed it
with the prosecutor by the time you testify. Do
not try to downplay what happened. Just answer
the question and move on.
10. Be confident, but not defensive –
Defense attorneys love to paint police officers
as the bad guys. Do not give them the
opportunity to do so in your case. Be polite and
cordial. Answer their questions, but do not let
them bait you into an argument.
