"The touchstone is always credibility; the ultimate measure of testimonial worth is quality and not quantity."–Justice Hugo L. Black
Effective trial advocacy requires an appreciation of the art of conversation. While the judge usually is not speaking, the judge should still be included in the conversation. To communicate an effective direct examination:
1. Keep in mind your basic objectives in calling the witness.
2. Ask simple questions and listen to the answers.
3. Articulate the significance of the witness’s testimony with your first question and the significance for each important fact and opinion with your later questions.
4. Focus the conversation on what the judge needs and wants to know.
5. Build a mood in the courtroom which is consistent with your theme.