What is 'cross-examination' used for in court?

Cross-examination is a critical component of the adversarial legal system, specifically designed to challenge the credibility and reliability of a witness's testimony. During cross-examination, the opposing party has the opportunity to ask questions that may highlight inconsistencies, biases, or lapses in a witness's account. This process helps to test the witness's memory and perception, as well as to reveal any potential motives to lie or to exaggerate.

The primary goal of cross-examination is to scrutinize the reliability of the information provided by the witness, thereby assisting the court in determining the weight that should be given to that testimony. Effective cross-examination can expose gaps in the witness's evidence or demonstrate how it may not align with established facts or other testimonies presented during the trial.

Understanding the importance of cross-examination in this light is essential for legal practitioners, as it is a fundamental tool in advocating for their client's interests and seeking a just outcome in a trial.