Can you answer I don't know in court?

Instead the better practice is to say “I'm not sure” or “I don't know.” If you are unsure about an answer you cannot then answer the question.
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Can you say I don't know in court?

Lawyers may also tell witnesses that if they don't remember certain events, they can simply say “I don't recall.” In general, such instructions are not improper. A witness cannot, however, repeatedly answer “I don't recall” to avoid truthfully answering questions.
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What do you say when you don't know the answer in court?

If you don't know the answer, say “I don't know,” and offer, with the court's permission, to provide the answer after oral argument, with a copy to opposing counsel.
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What words can you not say in court?

Words like "rape," "victim," "crime scene," "killer," "murder," "drunk," "homicide," "embezzle," "fraud," and "robbery" are now not allowed in some courtrooms. Language engineering like this usually has a social or political basis. In this case it's more a problem of trying to treat the accuser and the accused fairly.
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Is it OK to say I don't recall in court?

"I don't recall" is often the most truthful answer if you're not sure. Then if the document shows up, it may refresh your memory, but it doesn't contradict your sworn testimony. On the other hand, if something is fundamental and wrong, you would never have done or said that. Don't hide the truth behind memory.
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Alex Murdaugh’s FULL Confession to Murder-Suicide Scheme Played in Court



Can you refuse to answer a question in court us?

You cannot be punished for refusing to answer a question. It is a good idea to talk to a lawyer before agreeing to answer questions. In general, only a judge can order you to answer questions.
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What is the difference between I don t know and I don t recall?

Keep in mind the difference between “I don't know” and “I don't recall.” “I don't know” means you don't know now and you never did. “I don't recall at the present time” means you knew at one time, but you can't remember right now what the answer is.
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What not to say to a judge?

Do Not Exaggerate, Mislead, or State Anything Untrue. It goes without saying that you should never lie to a judge (that is perjury), but you should also avoid exaggerating the facts or misleading the court about any issue. Most judges can sense when a witness is stretching the truth, and they do not appreciate it.
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How do you get a judge to rule in your favor?

How to Persuade a Judge
  1. Your arguments must make logical sense. ...
  2. Know your audience.
  3. Know your case.
  4. Know your adversary's case.
  5. Never overstate your case. ...
  6. If possible lead with the strongest argument.
  7. Select the most easily defensible position that favors your case.
  8. Don't' try to defend the indefensible.
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How do you speak confidently in court?

Do's
  1. DO speak calmly and clearly.
  2. DO use the proper forms of address.
  3. DO be polite.
  4. DO stand when you address the court.
  5. DO make eye contact with the judge when you are speaking.
  6. DO ask for clarification if you are unclear about something.
  7. DO thank the judge for listening.
  8. DO arrive early to court.
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Can you say no when asked to tell the truth in court?

They want you to actually come and give evidence in the form of testimony. So if they refuse to swear to tell the truth, they're not in compliance with the subpoena.” If you're not in compliance with the subpoena, you can be held in contempt of court or, in the case of the Jan.
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How do you refuse to answer a question?

You can also refuse to answer the question, but be sure to be polite. “Say, 'I appreciate that this is of interest but we don't feel sharing the information is appropriate, especially at this time. But I'd be glad to answer other questions if you have them,'” says Sullivan. “Appreciate the interest but draw lines.”
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How do you answer difficult questions in court?

Luckily for you, there are some simple techniques you can use to buy that extra time you need before responding to a difficult question.
  1. Pause (Part 1). ...
  2. Repeat the question. ...
  3. Pause (Part 2). ...
  4. Ask the questioner to repeat their question. ...
  5. Clarify the question.
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Can you say I dont know testifying?

Make sure your answers are based on what you actually saw and heard, and not on what you think probably happened - it's ok to say that you don't know. Do not give opinions unless one of the lawyers asks you to.
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What happens when you say nothing in court?

If you properly assert your right to remain silent, your silence cannot be used against you in court. If your case goes to jury trial, the jury would be given a specific instructions not to consider your silence as an admission of guilt.
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Should I remain silent in court?

You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. (5th Amendment) If you start answering questions, you may stop at any time.
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What impresses a judge?

How To Impress The Judge When Speaking in Colorado Springs Courts
  • Judging More Than Your Guilt Or Innocence. ...
  • Dress For Success. ...
  • Be Respectful of The Judge At All Times When Speaking – And When Listening. ...
  • Keep Calm and Carry On. ...
  • The Truth, The Whole Truth, and Nothing But The Truth.
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What do judges want to hear?

At the end of the day, a judge wants to hear three things: accountability, responsibility, and remorse. They also want to hear your reasoning. Why did you commit the crime in the first place? In addition to this, they want to hear what's different now.
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Is it OK to call a judge sir?

In person: In an interview, social event, or in court, address a judge as “Your Honor” or “Judge [last name].” If you are more familiar with the judge, you may call her just “Judge.” In any context, avoid “Sir” or “Ma'am.”
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Can you apologize to a judge?

An apology letter is a good way of showing the Judge that you are honestly and truly sorry for your offending behaviour, and that you understand the seriousness of what you did.
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Can a judge be rude to you?

Judicial conduct oversight should not attempt to regulate purely personal aspects of a judge's life. However, a judge can commit misconduct by engaging in personal behaviour that calls their judicial integrity into question.
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What do judges say when not guilty?

If a defendant is found not guilty, by the magistrate, jury or judge, they will be 'acquitted' and free to go. If the defendant pleads guilty or is found guilty by the judge or jury, they are convicted and the judge will pass sentence.
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How can I replace I don't know?

Here are 8 alternatives to “I don't know”:
  1. “Would you mind repeating the question?” ...
  2. “Can I get a few more minutes to think about it?” ...
  3. “I'm not sure, but here is what I DO know…” ...
  4. “This is my best guess …” ...
  5. “I'm not quite sure … ...
  6. “May I ask a friend for help?”
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What is the difference between I don't know and I didn't know?

normally,which should be said when someone don't know about something. "I don't know" means you don't have the knowledge at this time, but "I didn't know" indicates that you DO know now, but did NOT know at some previous time.
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What is the difference between I do not know and I don't know?

Same meaning, But, people normally use "I don't know" to make it simple/short in a conversation. In written language it is more formal to use "I do not know". Both are correct.
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