0307

There are no obvious exceptions to the rule against compound questions -- asking two things at once is always confusing to the witness and jury. Therefore, you have to argue that it's not really compound despite the use of the word “and.”  I would argue that the question is not actually asking about different things, but is the equivalent of the question “What happened next?” and is really just asking the witness to describe the event.

Next, the judge asks a question: “What did he say?”
Judges are allowed to ask questions to assist witnesses and clarify testimony, as long as it is done in a nonpartisan way.

OK:  What did he say?

Not OK:  So did he call his ex-wife a bitch in an angry and vengeful manner?

Questions? Email tanford@indiana.edu and refer to 0307

The next question is "So, to clarify, his full statement was 'What are you going to do with the truck now, you bitch?' is that right?"

What objection(s) could the defense make to this question? When you think you know the answer, click here .