Tips for Taking the Stand

  • 1. Allow yourself to take brief pauses

    If at any time you're feeling overwhelmed, ask the judge or prosecutor for a short break.

  • 2. Stay hydrated

    Bring a water bottle and take sips of water throughout.

  • 3. Keep your eyes focused on the person asking you questions

    It can help avoid looking at the perpetrator or their supporters.

  • 4. Answer the questions – and nothing more

    Don’t volunteer additional information unless you are asked.

  • 5. Always tell the truth

    If you don’t remember something exactly, it’s important to say so. If you say something you didn’t mean to, or you think something came across in a way you didn’t intend, you can clarify your statement. Ask the judge, “May I go back to something I previously said?”

  • 6. If you don’t understand a question, say so

    You can always ask the attorneys to repeat or rephrase a question so you can better understand it.

Every trial is different. If you have specific questions about testifying, check in with a victim advocate or the prosecuting attorney.