§ Rule 611 Mode and Order of Interrogation and Presentation
Rule 611. Mode and Order of Interrogation and Presentation
(a) Control by Court; Time Limitations. The court shall exercise reasonable control over the mode and order of interrogating
witnesses and presenting evidence so as to (1) make the interrogation and presentation effective for the ascertainment of the truth, (2) avoid needless consumption of time, and (3) protect witnesses from harassment or undue embarrassment. The court may impose reasonable time limits on the trial proceedings or portions thereof.
(b) Scope of cross-examination. A witness may be cross-examined on any relevant matter.
(c) Leading questions. Leading questions should not be used on the direct examination of a witness except as may be necessary to develop the witness' testimony. Ordinarily, leading questions should be permitted on cross-examination. A party may interrogate an unwilling, hostile or biased witness by leading questions. A party may call an adverse party or an officer, director, or managing agent of a public or private corporation or of a partnership or association which is an adverse party or a witness whose interests are identified with an adverse party and interrogate that person by leading questions. The witness thus called may be interrogated by leading questions on behalf of the adverse party also.