direct examination

noun

: the first examination of a witness by the party calling the witness compare cross-examination

Examples of direct examination in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Prosecutor Danielle Sassoon had run an effective direct examination, creating an easy-to-follow narrative. —Elizabeth Lopatto, The Verge, 12 Oct. 2023

In direct examination, the defense is likely to ask Bankman-Fried to offer alternative explanations for the behaviors outlined in the testimony of his former colleagues, and perhaps address questions around his intentions and state of mind. —WIRED, 25 Oct. 2023

Before defense attorneys could cross examine Franks, Jonker told the attorneys their cross examinations could only be as long as the testimony taken from direct examination carried out by the government, to the chagrin of Gibbons and Blanchard. —Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press, 16 Aug. 2023

Michel’s lawyer David Kenner asked on direct examination. —Daniel Barnes, NBC News, 19 Apr. 2023

After Meadors ended his direct examination, Jim Griffin stepped in front of Smith and unfurled an enormous blue tarp. —Fox News, 6 Feb. 2023

Trial will resume Wednesday morning with his continued direct examination. —Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press, 16 Aug. 2022

On direct examination, defense attorney Sabino Jauregui presented the relationship with Lamond as evidence that Tarrio was an asset and ally to police. —Peter Hermann, Washington Post, 15 Feb. 2023

After prosecutors wrapped up their direct examination of McRoy, Murdaugh removed his reading glasses and wiped his eyes with a tissue. —Fox News, 2 Feb. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1859, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

direct examination

noun

: the first examination of a witness by the party calling the witness compare cross-examination, redirect examination

Note: As a general rule, leading questions are not allowed on direct examination, but there are exceptions, as when the witness is shown to be hostile.