Witness Basics

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Witness Basics
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Know the Facts

• Read and re-read your affidavit
• Be able to PARAPHRASE the main ideas
• Know key phrases
• Be familiar with exhibits that apply to your
  witness
• No notes are permitted on the stand

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BE THE WITNESS

• Dont simply play the witness, become the
  witness
• Connect with the character factually and
  emotionally
• Map out the characters life past and present
• Map out relationships between your character and
  others in the case

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REALLY BE THE WITNESS

• Does your character have an accent?
• How slow/fast does your character talk?
• Does the character use gestures?
• What kind of posture does the character have?
• What does the character wear?
• How does the character do her or his hair?

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General Witness Demeanor

• You are in a courtroom, maintain some sense of
  respect
• Speak LOUDLY
• Maintain composure on cross examination
• Tell your story to the Judge
• Maintain character throughout trial
• And above all, BE CREDIBLE!

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Happy Mocking!