Skip to content

Never, never, never, on cross-examination ask a witness a…

“Never, never, never, on cross-examination ask a witness a question you don't already know the answer to.” quote by Harper Lee
Download Open image
““Never, never, never, on cross-examination ask a witness a question you don't already know the answer to.””

Harper Lee

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He advises never to ask a witness a question you cannot already answer, emphasizing thorough preparation for cross‑examination.

In simple terms: Always know the answer before questioning a witness.

Key Takeaway

Prepare meticulously for questioning.

Themes

preparation legal strategy critical thinking

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

legal educational

When to use this quote

  • court trials
  • mock examinations
  • law school studies

Key Concepts

evidence analysis question framing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle surprise testimony?
  • What backup plans exist for unknowns?
A Different Perspective

Unexpected answers can still arise.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Harper Lee

Explore all 494 Harper Lee quotes

More Wisdom quotes

Browse all 24,117 Wisdom quotes