Cross-Examination on Trial: Advocacy and Vulnerability in Criminal Trials

by Jonathan Doak, John Jackson, Debbie Cooper, Candida Saunders, David Wright

Overview

Amid growing public concern about the negative effect cross-examination has on vulnerable witnesses, this book examines the effect of recent reforms to the practice across the different jurisdictions of the UK and Ireland.

Drawing on observations and transcripts of trials and interviews with judges, advocates and intermediaries, the book provides an evaluation of cross-examination in trials involving vulnerable witnesses and the extent to which reforms are producing meaningful change. The book’s analysis sheds new light on the significance of cross-examination in criminal trials and provides evidence-based solutions for further changes to enable vulnerable witnesses to give their best evidence to the court.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781529227246
Publisher:	Bristol University Press
Publication date:	11/06/2025
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	208

About the Author

Jonathan Doak is Associate Dean for Research and Professor of Criminal Justice at Nottingham Trent University.

John Jackson is Professor Emeritus of Comparative Criminal Law and Procedure at the University of Nottingham.

Debbie Cooper is Associate Research Fellow at the University of Nottingham and Visiting Research Fellow at Nottingham Trent University.

Candida Saunders is a legal researcher, formerly Assistant Professor of Law at the University of Nottingham.

David Wright is an Associate Professor in Linguistics at Nottingham Trent University.

Table of Contents

1. Mapping the Changing Face of Cross-Examination

2. Reform in Context

3. Pre-recorded Cross-Examination and Ground Rules Hearings

4. Shaping Cross-Examination through Intermediaries

5. Cross-Examination at Trial

6. The Language of Cross-Examination

7. The Changing Culture of Cross-Examination

8. Cross-Examination in Transition

Editorial Reviews

‘Authoritative and insightful, drawing on original empirical research to develop comprehensive and contemporary perspectives on the laws and policies discussed.’ Andrew Choo, Monash University

‘A comprehensive and formidable analysis of cross-examination and adversarial criminal trial reform in support of the vulnerable.’ Tyrone Kirchengast, The University of Sydney Law School

‘The authors have meticulously tracked a cultural revolution, the modernisation of cross-examination. I believe this book is essential reading for anyone who cares about obtaining the best evidence in court.’ Penny Cooper, author and barrister (rtd)

From the Publisher