Tips on Testifying

Tell the truth.
Don’t pause to try to figure out if your answer will hurt or help the case. Just answer truthfully, to the best of your memory.

Be prepared.
Try to recall what happened and picture the scene and the objects there. Don’t try to memorize your testimony; simply be prepared to tell what happened in your own words.

Clarify questions if you need to.
If you did not hear the question or did not understand it, ask the attorney to repeat it.

Answer only the questions asked of you.
Do not volunteer information. Stop immediately if the judge interrupts or if an attorney objects to a question.

Do not guess or speculate.
If you don’t know the answer, say so. If you give an estimate of time or distance, be sure everyone knows you are estimating.

Be courteous.
Try to remain calm and do not lose your temper. Being polite makes a good impression.

Speak clearly and loud enough to be heard.

Dress neatly.
Try to have a clean, neat appearance in court.