What is the term used when a defense counsel questions a crown witness during a trial?

The term used when a defense counsel questions a crown witness during a trial is cross-examination. This phase of the trial is crucial because it allows the defense to challenge the credibility and reliability of the witness's testimony. By probing the witness's statements, the defense can highlight inconsistencies, biases, or other factors that may affect the witness's reliability.

During cross-examination, the attorney often employs leading questions, which are designed to elicit specific answers and steer the narrative in a way that supports the defense's case. This is in contrast to direct examination, where a witness is questioned by the party that called them, allowing the witness to provide their account without leading prompts.

Redirect examination follows cross-examination, allowing the original attorney to clarify any issues raised during the cross-examination. Recross examination may occur subsequently, where the opposing counsel has a further opportunity to question the witness. However, it is cross-examination that specifically refers to the questioning by the defense of a witness who was called by the prosecution.