Cross-examination

the questioning of a witness of the opposing party in court or at a deposition. The purpose is to test the credibility or pursue advantageous avenues.

Following the direct examination of a witness by a lawyer, cross examination is the follow-up questioning by the opposing lawyer.

Following the direct examination of a witnesscross examination is the follow-up questioning ("examination"). If your lawyer is conducting a cross-examination, that means the witness was first called by the opposing side. For instance, after your spouse testifies during direct examination, your lawyer has the opportunity to cross-examine. As you know, these can be messy since the rules of evidence allow almost anything that will impeach the witness.