Cross-Examination: Where Cases Win or Implode | Lawyers Without Billboards S2 - Ep13

Cross-Examination: Where Cases Win or ImplodeCross-examination is often the most critical moment in any case—and the most dangerous.In this episode, the attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis break down how they prepare clients for cross-examination, what can go wrong on the stand, and why credibility is everything in front of a judge.They discuss the importance of identifying weaknesses early, understanding the opposing side’s perspective, and having honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversations with clients before trial.The key takeaway: there are no perfect clients—but owning your mistakes and preparing properly can make the difference between winning and losing.⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Intro: What Is Cross-Examination? 01:14 – Why Cross-Examination Can Make or Break Your Case 02:36 – Finding Weak Spots in Your Own Case 03:38 – Practicing Cross-Examination with Clients 04:46 – How Attorneys “Box You In” on the Stand 06:23 – When Evidence Backfires 07:06 – How Clients Should Handle Tough Questions 08:01 – Rule #1: Tell the Truth (Even When It Hurts) 09:22 – Get Ahead of Weaknesses Before Cross 10:04 – Military Lessons on Seeing the Other Side 12:20 – If You Can’t Explain Your Case Simply, You’re Not Ready 14:53 – Owning Your Mistakes Builds Credibility 17:21 – Why Judges Care More About Honesty Than Perfection 20:24 – Mock Cross-Examinations & Real Preparation 22:39 – “I Don’t Know” vs. Losing Credibility 25:51 – Why Some Lawyers Don’t Prepare (And Why That’s Risky) 27:17 – Final Takeaways: Preparation + Perspective + Ownership🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis 🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/Rr8GEwRTFcg  or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.📩 Contact: [email protected]| (770) 939-1939🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA