Reexamination Flashcards

A party fails to object during reexamination when opposing counsel exceeds the proper scope. On appeal, the issue is reviewed under:

Answer: Plain error standard due to the failure to object below

Failure to object at trial limits appellate review to plain error, requiring a showing of obvious error affecting substantial rights.

In Connecticut, may a party recall a witness for additional direct examination after both sides have rested?

Answer: Only with leave of court and a showing of good cause

Recalling a witness after both parties rest requires court permission and a sufficient showing of need or good cause.

Which scenario appropriately limits reexamination in a Connecticut bench trial?

Answer: A judge may end reexamination when it becomes repetitive or cumulative

Connecticut judges — in both bench and jury trials — may terminate redundant or cumulative examination to promote efficient proceedings.

An attorney attempts redirect examination but forgot to ask about an important topic on direct. The court in Connecticut will most likely:

Answer: Restrict redirect to cross-examination topics only

Redirect is not a remedy for incomplete direct; courts limit redirect to matters actually raised on cross-examination.

During reexamination in a Connecticut criminal trial, the prosecutor introduces evidence of a collateral matter not raised on cross. Defense counsel objects. The court should:

Answer: Sustain the objection because redirect must be limited to cross-examination scope

Even in criminal trials, redirect is bounded by cross-examination scope; collateral matters not raised on cross are outside redirect's proper purpose.

A Connecticut court permits a third round of cross-examination over objection. On appeal, the aggrieved party must show:

Answer: That the error was prejudicial and affected the verdict

Evidentiary and procedural errors require a showing of prejudice — that the error likely affected the outcome — to warrant reversal.

When a Connecticut court sua sponte questions a witness between examination rounds, the parties:

Answer: May examine the witness further on matters raised by the court's questions

When a judge questions a witness, Connecticut courts permit parties to examine the witness on topics the judge's questions raised.