topic Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court? in Community Chat

Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Madisson — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 00:23:57 GMT

I have to testify in court next Wednesday for a friend who is suing her former employer. I had kind of planned out what I would wear. Her attorney called me today and advised me not to wear black. I asked why not, as I planned to. He said, "The good guys never wear black." That was a new one to me! Anyone ever hear of this or have any tips on testifying in court? I never did this before and am a bit anxious about it. Thank you!

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Preds — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 00:43:55 GMT

I would wear something that you would be comfortable in for a long period of time. You will be nervous and may become hot or cold. Just be aware of what you are going to say, do, answer and not worry about your looks. You will be nervous enough without having to fidget with clothing. Good Luck to you and your friend. Try your best to relax.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

raven-blackbird — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 00:45:12 GMT

I have testified twice..............keep your answer short and direct.............................raven

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

sophiamarie — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 00:46:42 GMT

That makes sense. All our lives, we were brought to up to believe that the bad guys always wore black and the good guys wore white.

I think, subconsciously, when someone wears black, they are not looked upon as being honest and truthful.

Listen to the lawyer. He knows what he's talking about.

ETA: When answering a question, never say "yes BUT...... A simple yes or no is all that is required......

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

SydneyH — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 00:46:52 GMT

Yes, one of the most terrifying experiences ever.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Margo Channing — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 00:58:20 GMT

I have testified twice. Once when I was 8 1/2months pregnant. Her attorney said I won the case for her on my appearance alone! The second time was an employee/employer case. I wore a black skirt and grey sweater. She lost. Go figure.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Marp2 — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:07:19 GMT

When testifying DO NOT anticipate the questions or anticipate what answer the attorney is looking for. Listen intently to the questions asked and answer only the question as concisely as possible. Be sure of your facts before you answer and particularly with the opposition no matter how many different ways you are asked the same question keep your answer consistent.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Lotus — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:13:51 GMT

Yes....a Grand Jury hearing. In addition to being nervous to testify, I had just learned that same morning that I was pregnant. Double nervous.

The attorney should prep you about what to expect before you testify.

I would imagine what you wear would have an impact on the jury. Don't be surprised if it settles out of court and you won't even have to testify.

Good luck if you do make it to the stand.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Bird mama — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:15:34 GMT

Well, I was in grade school (think 6th or 7th grade). I remember wearing a blue dress one of the times (the case dragged on and on).

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

betteb — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:16:05 GMT

On 1/3/2015 raven-blackbird said:
I have testified twice..............keep your answer short and direct.............................raven

^^This^^

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Bird mama — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:18:00 GMT

On 1/3/2015 raven-blackbird said:
I have testified twice..............keep your answer short and direct.............................raven

NM - Just noticed that Marp said what I was going to say, before I said it. Good advice.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

deepwaterdotter — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:18:16 GMT

Only once as a character witness for the defendant. The accused ended up with a life sentence. No one ever asked me to testify again.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Bird mama — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:19:48 GMT

On 1/3/2015 deepwaterdotter said:
Only once as a character witness for the defendant. The accused ended up with a life sentence. No one ever asked me to testify again.

Oh no

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Madisson — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:20:51 GMT

Preds, thanks for the suggestions. I do tend to run hot and then start dripping. That could be embarrassing! I'll dress in a couple light layers. I'll also think out some responses so I'm not fumbling for words.

raven, short answers? Good idea. I'll be nervous enough. I'm not so worried about her attorney, but the cross examination could be spooky.

sophiamarie, guess I'll find something different to wear! Maybe winter white?? I would not want to be viewed as being dishonest. Good suggestion on my responses.

Sydney, I understand. That's how I am going to feel!

Margo, hmmm...interesting! No black for me! Maybe I could stuff a pillow in my belly area??

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Madisson — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:34:40 GMT

Marp, Betteb, and Bird Mama, it's those tricky questions by the opposing attorney that worry me! I will definitely not say one more word than I have to. Everyone keeps advising me to listen closely to the questions.

Lotus, a Grand Jury hearing?? This won't be that bad, but they have gone past the point of settling out of court. You are correct...some of us are meeting with the attorney on Monday so he can prep us.

Deepwaterdotter, Oh, my Well, that's one way of getting out of being asked to be a witness in the future!

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

gidgetgh — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 01:49:54 GMT

I've testified twice, for work related things at my former job. I had to travel out of state for both hearings. I was sooooooooooooo nervous, but I did great both times. The first was the worst. The courtroom was packed. Lots of hearings, place was filled with lawyers and various witnesses. Very surreal experiences though. Kind of out of body.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

brewhaha — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 02:11:18 GMT

I pled the fifth.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Yahooey — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 02:31:46 GMT

I never testified in a trial but was in a deposition. Speak slowly, clearly and concisely. Don't rush through words or mumble. Good luck. I did not want to be called as a witness. Was relieved when he plead guilty.

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

Madisson — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 02:33:17 GMT

Gidget, twice?? I'm hoping never to have to do this again! I'm glad you did well though. Hope I do half as well.

Brewhaha,

Yahooey, I'll have to remember to speak slowly...and to breathe! When I get nervous, I speak faster and kind of hold my breath. Thanks for the tips!

Re: Anyone Ever Testify in Court?

september — Sun, 04 Jan 2015 03:17:26 GMT

I only got as far as the deposition. The case never went to trial, but the advice I got for the deposition is similar to what's already been posted here. Keep your answers brief. Just answer the question you've been asked.