What is one of the outcomes of a successful cross-examination?

A successful cross-examination primarily aims to neutralize damaging testimony. This involves effectively questioning the witness to challenge the credibility of their statements or to reveal inconsistencies in their account. By doing so, the cross-examiner seeks to create reasonable doubt about the reliability of the witness's testimony and to undermine its impact on the case. In doing this, the process contributes significantly to the overall defense or prosecution strategy, potentially influencing the jury's perception and decision-making.

Neutralizing damaging testimony is a critical skill in legal proceedings, as it can alter the outcome of the case based on how the evidence is perceived. In contrast, while introducing new witnesses or validating original testimony may occur in a trial, those outcomes are not primary objectives of cross-examination. Speeding up the trial process, although a possible byproduct of efficient legal strategies, is not a goal unique to cross-examination and does not directly relate to the effectiveness of questioning a witness.