In the intricacies of cross-examination, a nuanced approach that balances brevity with efficacy can often be the most effective. According to Thomas Innes from the Defender Association of Philadelphia, attorneys should exercise restraint during cross-examination by limiting both the scope of their questions and the length of individual queries. This strategy aims not only to control the narrative provided by the witness but also to maintain the engagement and focus of the factfinders in the courtroom environment. Innes emphasizes that this principle of “less is more, and more is less” is paramount for attorneys seeking to leverage testimony effectively during trials.
For a deeper exploration into these techniques and their applications, the insights articulated by Thomas Innes are available in his article on Law360.