Term
| #1 – Explain the necessary steps in preparing for court. |
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Definition
• Ensure all evidence required for the case is accounted for, safely secured, and can be obtained prior to court
• Call and meet with the prosecutor to determine if additional assistance or information is needed
• Review notes and/or reports pertinent to the case |
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Term
| #2 – List the general rules for effective courtroom testimony. |
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Definition
• Be early
• Be professional
• Wear your uniform or business attire
• Speak loudly, clearly, and with confidence
• Give concise, clear, and complete answers
• Avoid talking with potential or actual jurors |
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Term
Tactic – asking if the officer has spoken with other parties involved with the case (e.g., other attorneys, investigators, witnesses)
o Used to make officers think that if they have done so, they have done something wrong |
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Definition
Counter tactic – answer truthfully
o Officers are permitted to talk to these people
o Officer, however, can’t tell them what to say |
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Term
Tactic – rapid fire questioning
• Used to confuse the officer and force inconsistent answers |
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Definition
Counter tactic – slow the pace by pausing before answering
• Remain calm
• This will prohibit the attorney from building momentum
• Ask to have the question repeated if unsure how or what to answer |
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Term
Tactic – repeated questioning
• Used in an attempt to obtain conflicting responses |
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Definition
Counter tactics
• Tell the truth
• Know the facts of the case and the material upon which you will be testifying |
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Term
Tactic – verbal badgering and staring
• Used to anger the officer so the officer loses composure |
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Definition
Counter tactics
• Remain calm
• Look at the person who is asking the question, then answer the question to the jury or judge |
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Term
Tactic – asking two questions at the same time
• Used in an attempt to confuse the officer |
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Definition
Counter tactics
• Remain calm
• Ask the attorney which question should be answered first |
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Term
Tactic – friendly counsel
• Used in an attempt to place the officer in a false level of comfort |
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Definition
Counter tactics
• Stay alert and listen
• Be aware the purpose of the friendly demeanor may be to lull the officer into a false sense of security so the officer becomes sloppy with the testimony |
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