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Witnesses (Chapter 8, Kentucky Civil Practice at Trial 2008)
University of Kentucky College of Law Office of Continuing Legal Education
9/1/2008
John L. Tate and Holly N. Lankster
Related Information
This Chapter is excerpted from Kentucky Civil Trial Practice (2008)
"Witnesses"
I. [8.1] Introduction and Scope
Intended as a practical guide to the examination of witnesses in civil trials, this chapter is written primarily for the less experienced trial lawyer. With civil trials becoming less frequent, however, even experienced lawyers can benefit from a review of basic principles before re-entering the courtroom after an involuntary hiatus.
Many lawyers view opening statement and closing argument as the most important parts of a trial even if—as trial judges are wont to say—these presentations are “not evidence.” Logically and legally, of course, the presentation of evidence is the crucial element of any party’s case, making the testimony of witnesses the undeniable heart of any trial.
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John L. Tate is a Member in the Louisville office and is co-chair of the firm's Torts & Insurance Practice Group. John's national and regional litigation practice focuses on defending complex product liability lawsuits, but his trial experience also includes admiralty claims, construction and insurance disputes, intellectual property, and a variety of personal injury matters.
Holly N. Lankster is an Associate in the Lexington office and a member of the Torts & Insurance Practice Group where she concentrates primarily on product liability and toxic tort litigation.