Examination-in-Chief

Definition

When a lawyer questions their own witness during trial—basically coaching them to tell the 'right' story while maintaining plausible deniability.

Example Usage

During examination-in-chief, the attorney walked the witness through the events of that day.

Origin

Term used in British legal tradition; American courts call this 'direct examination'

Fun Fact

Lawyers can't ask leading questions during examination-in-chief (except for hostile witnesses), which is why it's so much less dramatic than cross-examination.

Source: Trial procedure and evidence terminology

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