CROSSEXAMINATION Meaning and
Definition
-
Cross-examination is a legal term that refers to the questioning of a witness by the opposing party during a trial. It is an essential component of the adversarial system and is primarily employed to challenge the credibility, accuracy, or reliability of the witness's testimony. The purpose of cross-examination is to extract information that may weaken or contradict the witness's statements, expose inconsistencies or biases, or elicit additional facts that are beneficial to the questioning party's case.
Typically, cross-examination follows the direct examination, where the witness is initially questioned by the party who called them to testify. During cross-examination, the opposing counsel has the opportunity to ask questions aimed at uncovering any weaknesses or discrepancies in the witness's testimony. This could involve exploring potential biases, disputing the witness's recollection of events, or challenging their qualifications or expertise in a particular subject matter.
Cross-examination is a strategic and nuanced process that requires careful preparation, skillful questioning techniques, and a strong understanding of the case. Effective cross-examination can be instrumental in shaping the perceptions of the judge or jury, undermining the credibility of the witness, or exposing flaws in their testimony.
In summary, cross-examination is a legal process conducted in a courtroom setting, involving the questioning of a witness by the opposing party. Its purpose is to challenge the veracity and reliability of the witness's testimony, uncover biases or inconsistencies, and ultimately influence the outcome of the case.
Common Misspellings for CROSSEXAMINATION
- cross-xamination
- cross-examnation
- cross-examination
- xrossexamination
- vrossexamination
- frossexamination
- drossexamination
- ceossexamination
- cdossexamination
- cfossexamination
- ctossexamination
- c5ossexamination
- c4ossexamination
- crissexamination
- crkssexamination
- crlssexamination
- crpssexamination
- cr0ssexamination
- cr9ssexamination
- croasexamination
Etymology of CROSSEXAMINATION
The word "crossexamination" has its roots in Middle English and Latin.
The term "cross" comes from the Old English word "cros", meaning "cross", and it ultimately derives from the Latin word "crux". In this context, "cross" refers to the act of intersecting or opposing.
"Examination" comes from the Latin word "examinare", meaning "to weigh, test, or examine". This Latin verb is derived from "examen", which referred to the tongue of a balance or the pan of a pair of scales. Over time, the word "examination" evolved to encompass the broader sense of thorough scrutiny or inquiry.
Therefore, "crossexamination" refers to the act of questioning or interrogating someone, especially in a legal setting, where one party's lawyer questions the opposing party's witness.
