Also known as: redirects · redirected · redirecting · redirection · redirect examination
Written by attorneys · grounded in primary & secondary sources — see below
Examination of a witness conducted by the party who called the witness after the opposing party has completed cross-examination. The examination allows the calling party to address matters raised on cross and clarify the witness's testimony.
Rebecca Ross testified at a prior deposition in a contract dispute. At the later civil trial the opposing party offers her deposition transcript. The court admits the transcript because the party against whom it is offered had an opportunity to develop the testimony through redirect examination at the deposition.
Rosalind Reed identified the defendant at trial but could not recall certain details on cross-examination. On redirect her attorney asked questions that refreshed her recollection of the events without introducing new matters outside the scope of cross.
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Renee Rogers gave testimony on direct that appeared inconsistent with a prior statement. Defense counsel explored the inconsistency on cross. On redirect the prosecutor asked limited questions that allowed Rogers to explain the apparent inconsistency.
Ralph Richardson's character for truthfulness was attacked on cross-examination. On redirect the prosecutor asked questions that permitted Richardson to explain the circumstances surrounding the prior incidents raised by the defense.
Riley Rivera completed direct examination late in the day. The court recessed for lunch before redirect. Defense counsel conferred with Rivera during the recess to prepare for redirect without violating any sequestration order.
Rhea Reynolds testified on direct and was cross-examined about her statements to police. On redirect she volunteered additional details about the interrogation. The court permitted the testimony because it responded directly to matters raised on cross.
Redirect examination is limited to matters raised on cross-examination and to rehabilitating the witness. The trial judge has discretion to permit additional questions when justice requires.
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New matters outside the scope of cross-examination are generally not permitted on redirect. The court may allow them in its discretion when necessary to prevent unfairness.
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Yes. The rule expressly recognizes that a party had an opportunity and similar motive to develop testimony when it could have conducted redirect examination at the prior proceeding.
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Denial of redirect may constitute an abuse of discretion if the party was prevented from addressing new matters raised on cross or from rehabilitating the witness.
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…today? "A. No, sir. "Q. Not today? "A. No, sir. "Q. So you only had one drink today? "A. Yes, sir." On redirect examination, appellant's lawyer elicited the following: "Q. Leroy, isn't the real reason why you just had one drink today because you just had enough money to buy one drink? "A. Well, that was…