CHILDREN AND THE LAW
...The Child Witness
......Special Court Procedural Rules
.........Leading Questions
5 Cards On This Topic:
  • Leading questions may not be asked on direct or redirect examination.
  • Leading questions may be asked of child under age 10 or of a dependent person with a substantial cognitive impairment for certain crimes.
  • Leading questions on direct exam of child witness is acknowledged exception to traditional view that leading questions undesirable; child may use anatomical dolls or other devices to assist her in testifying.
  • Court has discretion to permit use of leading questions with child witness, but must be careful to avoid suggesting answers.
  • Court has discretion to permit use of leading questions on direct examination of child witness.