1. A. In preparing for presentation of a defense case, the attorney should, where appropriate:

   1. 1. develop a plan for direct examination of each potential defense witness;
   2. 2. determine the implications that the order of witnesses may have on the defense case;
   3. 3. determine what facts necessary for the defense case can be elicited through the cross-examination of the prosecution’s witnesses;
   4. 4. consider the possible use of character witnesses, to the extent that use of character witnesses does not allow the prosecution to introduce potentially harmful evidence against the child client;
   5. 5. consider the need for expert witnesses and what evidence must be submitted to lay the foundation for the expert’s testimony;
   6. 6. review all documentary evidence that must be presented;
   7. 7. review all tangible evidence that must be presented; and
   8. 8. after the state’s presentation of evidence and a discussion with the child client, make the decision whether to call any witnesses.
2. B. The attorney should conduct redirect examination as appropriate.
3. C. The attorney should prepare all witnesses for direct and possible cross-examination. Where appropriate, the attorney should also advise witnesses of suitable courtroom dress and demeanor.

Authority Note

AUTHORITY NOTE: Promulgated in accordance with R.S. 15:148.

Historical Note

HISTORICAL NOTE: Promulgated by the Office of the Governor, Public Defender Board, LR 37:2610 (September 2011), amended LR 45:414 (March 2019).