Leading Question

A leading question is a question asked in a criminal case which suggests another answer. Leading questions are not permitted during the direct examination of a witness but may are allowed during cross-examination. Generally, leading questions are considered unprofessional and a breach of legal ethics.

There are specific times when the court will allow leading questions: during cross-examination, if the witness is declared hostile, or if the court determines the witness is not being forthcoming enough in their testimony.

A leading question, which suggests an answer, can include the following question, "Didn't the defendant appear to be speeding given the conditions of the road and the posted speeding limits?"Examples of non-leading questions include, "How fast do you estimate the defendant was driving?" and "How far could you see?"