Direct Examination (Noun)
Meaning
(law) the initial questioning of a witness by the party that called the witness.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The prosecutor began the direct examination of the key witness, asking her to describe the events of the night of the crime.
- During the direct examination, the defense attorney asked the expert witness to explain the scientific principles behind the defendant's alibi.
- The direct examination of the victim was a crucial part of the trial, as it provided the jury with a firsthand account of the alleged abuse.
- The lawyer's direct examination of the witness was cut short when the judge sustained an objection from the opposing counsel.
- The direct examination of the defendant was a dramatic moment in the trial, as it was the first time the jury had heard from the accused directly.