Which tactic is commonly used by defense counsel?

• A. Public relations
• B. Witness coaching
• C. Personal attacks
• D. Legal research

Answer: (C)

Credibility has a big impact on how jurors interpret testimony, and defense attorneys frequently use cross-examination to undermine that credibility by focusing on the witness as a person—questioning consistency, motives, biases, and past conduct. By highlighting inconsistencies or unfavorable personal traits, the defense aims to cast doubt on whether the witness is trustworthy, which can sway the jurors to doubt the prosecution’s version of events. This tactic is about shaping perception of the witness rather than proving facts directly, and it’s a common argumentative tool in defense strategy. While preparation of witnesses and thorough legal research are essential parts of defense work, the targeted, face-to-face attempt to erode a witness’s credibility is the tactic described here.