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MODULE 27 Testifying in Court. TESTIFYING IN COURT. A. OBJECTIVE 1. 068: Identify or demonstrate the role of reports when appearing as a witness at adjustment/court proceedings. TESTIFYING IN COURT.
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TESTIFYING IN COURT A. OBJECTIVE 1. 068: Identify or demonstrate the role of reports when appearing as a witness at adjustment/court proceedings.
TESTIFYING IN COURT 2. 151: Identify or demonstrate the importance of professional appearance when appearing as a witness at adjustment/court proceedings.
TESTIFYING IN COURT 3. 152: Identify or demonstrate the role of the prosecutor when appearing as a witness at adjustment/court proceedings.
TESTIFYING IN COURT 4. 153. Identify or demonstrate procedures to insure adequate testimony when appearing as a witness at adjustment/court proceedings.
TESTIFYING IN COURT 5. 154: Identify or demonstrate elements to avoid when being cross examined & procedures to follow when appearing as a witness at adjustment/court proceedings.
TESTIFYING IN COURT B. Testifying in Court & Adjustment Hearings 1. Maintain a professional demeanor before, during & after the procedure 2. Be confident & convincing when presenting testimony
TESTIFYING IN COURT C. Role of Reports 1. Reports provide answers necessary while giving testimony 2. Reports assist the witness’s memory & recall when testifying 3. To be of any benefit, reports must be well written, complete & intelligent
TESTIFYING IN COURT D. Guideline for the Effective Witness 1. Rules before trial a. Review report(s) b. Review notes & any written statements taken as a part of the investigation
TESTIFYING IN COURT 2. Confer with prosecutor a. Cooperation with the prosecutor begins before the trial b. Correctional employees must pass on to the prosecutor what they know
TESTIFYING IN COURT c. The prosecutor will go over any expected difficulties with the employee
TESTIFYING IN COURT d. The prosecutor will review the applicable rules of evidence such as hearsay and opinion e. The prosecutor will discuss the role of any evidence pertinent to the officer’s testimony
TESTIFYING IN COURT 3. Rules on the Day of Trial a. Present a professional image b. Correctional employee’s attire is the first thing observed by others c. The attire affects how jurors perceive your credibility
TESTIFYING IN COURT • Procedures to ensure a professional appearance *Be clean shaven *Be well groomed *Wear a clean, pressed uniform or suit
TESTIFYING IN COURT e. Be on time f. Be available and ready to testify g. Leave immediately • Do not show approval or disapproval of verdict
TESTIFYING IN COURT E. Elements to Avoid When Being Cross Examined 1. Don’t memorize your testimony 2. Don’t argue with counsel 3. Don’t attempt to “color” your testimony 4. Don’t avoid answering questions you feel will help the other party