kryssforhør

Kryssforhør, or cross-examination, is the phase of a trial in which the opposing party questions a witness who has testified during direct examination. Its purpose is to test the credibility and accuracy of the testimony, reveal inconsistencies, and uncover biases or motives that may affect reliability.

Procedure typically involves the cross-examiner using leading questions to control the witness’s narrative. The witness is under oath, and questions must be relevant and not abusive or harassing. The court or judge ensures that the questioning complies with applicable rules, balancing thorough examination with protection against improper conduct. The cross-examiner may also use the witness’s prior statements to highlight contradictions or impeach credibility.

After cross-examination, the party who called the witness may conduct redirect examination to clarify points raised during cross and rehabilitate the testimony. In some systems, a further recross may be allowed.

Variations exist across jurisdictions. In adversarial legal systems, kryssforhør is a central instrument for testing evidence and shaping the trial’s outcome. In more inquisitorial or civil-law traditions, cross-examination may be more limited or differently integrated into the investigative process, though witnesses can still be confronted by opposing parties.

See also: cross-examination, impeachment, direct examination.