CROSS-EXAMINATION

:''See Structure of policy debate for cross-examination in policy debate.''
In law, 'cross-examination' is the interrogation of a witness called by one's opponent. It is preceded by direct examination (in England, Australia and Canada known as examination-in-chief) and may be followed by a redirect (re-examination in England, Australia, and Canada).
In the United States, the cross-examining attorney is typically not permitted to ask questions which do not pertain to the facts revealed in direct examination. This is called going beyond the scope of the direct examination. This does not apply in England and Australia, where once a witness is called the opponent's lawyer can ask any question relevant to the issues in the trial.
Unlike in direct examinations, however, leading questions are typically permitted in a cross-examination, since the witness is presumed to be unsympathetic to the opposing side.
See also testimony.