Selling Yourself When Testifying 149
11
Selling Yourself
When Testifying
C 149 c
THERE WAS A time when our knowledge of legal procedures and
the courtroom was limited to TV programs (Law and Order) or
films (Philadelphia). Now, with so many people suing or investi-
gating each other, and with most of us embracing and speaking
out for causes, we may find ourselves involved in a court case or a
legislative proceeding.
To testify effectively requires considerable skill.
As does a television or a radio interview, delivering testimony
takes place on “foreign soil.” We’re asked to appear in strange
surroundings that can adversely affect our ability to play the game.
Also, as with the radio or TV interview, giving testimony is often
a confrontational situation. You may have a patient and friendly
questioner who guides you through your testimony, or you may
have an impatient and hostile questioner who is trying to prove
you are lying through your teeth.
What are you supposed to say?
How are you supposed to react?
In court and in hearings, every appearance is different, but
the communication skills are similar.
The deposition
Before a trial begins, more often than not, depositions are
taken. A deposition is simply a pretrial statement made under
oath before attorneys for both sides and a clerk. There is no jury