Page 150 - How To Sell Yourself

Selling Yourself When Testifying 149 11
Selling Yourself When Testifying
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
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