Can a defendant object to a question?

You can object to an answer that a witness is giving and you can also object to a question from the opposing party, if the question itself violates a rule of evidence.

Can witnesses refuse to answer questions?

Under California law, you can only instruct your witness not to answer when the information sought is privileged (e.g., “attorney-client” (Evid. 4th 1006, the defense attorney instructed his witness not to answer on the grounds that the information sought was not relevant. The plaintiff brought a motion to compel.

Can a witness object in a deposition?

Harassment of the Witness – If your witness is being attacked or harassed, you have the right to object regardless of whether you are in a hearing or in a deposition. If the behavior continues, you have the right to end the deposition.

Who can object in a trial?

Privileged Communication—The defense can object if the question violates doctor-patient, husband-wife, attorney-client or priest-penitent privilege. Speculative—Calls for the witness to guess or speculate as to what happened.

What are trial objections?

In the law of the United States of America, an objection is a formal protest raised in court during a trial to disallow a witness’s testimony or other evidence in violation of the rules of evidence or other procedural law.

Can you decline to answer a question in court?

You cannot be punished for refusing to answer a question. It is a good idea to talk to a lawyer before agreeing to answer questions. In general, only a judge can order you to answer questions.

What questions Cannot be asked in a deposition?

Which Questions Shouldn’t I Answer in a Deposition?

• Private information. You have a right to refuse any questions about a person’s health, sexuality, or religious beliefs (including your own).
• Privileged information.
• Irrelevant information.

What can be asked in a deposition?

Common questions in this vein include:

• How did you prepare for this deposition?
• Have you spoken to anyone other than your counsel about this case?
• What, specifically was discussed?
• What documents pertaining to the case have you reviewed?
• Did you meet with counsel for the other side prior to this deposition?

How do you respond to an objection in a mock trial?

Stand and say, for example, “Objection your honor that question lacks foundation. May I be heard?” If the court allows, explain your issue. Always ask to be heard before explaining or rebutting. Always address the judge, not the other lawyer.

Can a witness object to a question in court?

When it comes to a witness, a witness cannot object to a question. For example, a witness cannot say “objection, calls for hearsay.” The attorneys must do that. However, a witness can state that she doesn’t understand the question or otherwise challenge the question (to some degree) if it doesn’t make sense to them.

Can a defendant object to a question on the stand?

A defendant on the stand that is represented by an attorney cannot object to a question. However, if the defendant doesn’t understand the question or has some other issue, he can so state. When it comes to a witness, a witness cannot object to a question. For example, a witness cannot say “objection, calls for hearsay.” The attorneys must do that.

What is an argumentative objection at trial?

Learn about trial basics here. Argumentative objections are often made when the questions directed to the witness attempt to influence the witness’ testimony by inserting the attorney’s (or self-represented party’s) interpretation of the evidence into the question.

What are the rights of a witness in a criminal case?

When testifying, a witness’s only job is to truthfully answer the questions put to him/her by the lawyers and the judge. This includes a defendant in a criminal proceeding who chooses to testify. It is not proper for a witness to object to questions.