Understanding testimony and evidence

You are at the point in the trial where you are asked to take an oath and promise to tell the truth. You then take your seat, and the room’s focus is on you. You may have the judge sitting next to you at an elevated position. Across from you, you may see two tables. One table will be hosting the prosecution, which could be one or more attorneys. At the next table will be the defense, which can also comprise more than one attorney and the subject of the trial.

There could also be a jury box that could contain 12 or more citizens whose job is to determine the guilt or innocence of the accused. Every single one of them is now watching you. This can be a little stress-inducing. Take a deep breath and focus on the questions being asked of you.

Your testimony will comprise technical details and your expert opinion. The technical information will include you explaining complex technical issues in simple terms. This enables the non-technical...