Signaling the client during cross-examination? Me?

Lawyer Robert Bundy, representing a key witness at the Ted Stevens trial, is said to be all “torn up” about the judge’s accusation that he was transmitting secret nods and movements to convey to his client what testimony was desirable. Eric Turkewitz says that in his experience coaching during testimony takes three forms: “speaking objections”, nods and head movements (which may be unconscious), and deliberate signaling. (Oct. 7; AP/Google).

5 Comments

  • So which method does Turkewitz prefer?

  • Did the judge forget Morse Code, toe tapping, eye winks, and all the other possible communication methods? Heck, for all we know he has an earbud receiver and is being coached from someone in the back of the gallery.

  • Do you remember the horse Clever Hans from Psychology 101?

  • So which method does Turkewitz prefer?

    Mental telepathy. Just like 99% of the other trial attorneys:

    “Oh please, dear client, don’t freak out on the witness stand and forget your wife’s name and date of birth. You can hear my thoughts, can’t you?”

  • Novel larceny defense: Your Honor, I thought my attorney was giving me the steal sign.