The best way to prove your case to a jury is often through the mouths of the enemy. Most jurors will expect your witnesses to testify favorably to your case. They will not, on the other hand, expect an adverse witness to testify favorably for you. Therefore, any opposition witness that gives positive testimony for you will help underscore the strength of your case. Of course, proving your case through witnesses who would prefer to hurt you does seem a little dangerous. However, with the proper command of the facts and effective trial skills, utilizing adverse direct examination can make the evidence much more compelling.
The most important thing to do when calling an adverse witness—either the defendant himself or an employee of the defendant—is to exercise total control. There is no better way to do this than by the use of leading questions which are defined as:
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