Episode 458: Cross-Examination, Courtroom Storytelling, & the Art of Being Nice to Cops

This week on Driving Law, Kyla Lee is joined by Montana criminal defence lawyer Matt Dodd for a discussion about cross-examination, trial advocacy, and storytelling in court. Matt discusses his criminal defence and DUI practice in Montana, including his work on serious criminal cases and civil litigation. He and Kyla then explore what makes cross-examination effective, emphasizing the importance of preparation, knowing the goal for each witness, and using cross-examination to tell the client’s story. The conversation also looks at why lawyers do not always need to be aggressive to be effective. Matt explains why he often takes a friendly, conversational approach with police witnesses, and how that can help control the witness, lower defensiveness, and make the information more accessible to a jury. Kyla and Matt also discuss the importance of in-person advocacy, building rapport in courtrooms, and the value of getting real-world practice talking to people. They consider how younger lawyers may face a steeper learning curve with interpersonal courtroom skills after years of remote hearings and online learning. Plus, Matt shares information about Dodd Trial Skills clinics, including upcoming in-person cross-examination training opportunities for lawyers. Check out Dodd Trial Skills Clinics for more information about Matt’s cross-examination training, or contact Acumen Law at VancouverCriminalLaw.com for assistance with driving law and criminal defence matters. More: "Lawyer Told Me Not To Talk To You" T-shirts and hoodies at Lawyertoldme.com and "Sit Still Jackson" at sitstilljackson.com.