What aspect distinguishes "direct examination" from "cross-examination"?

The aspect that distinguishes "direct examination" from "cross-examination" is that it is conducted by the party calling the witness. During direct examination, the attorney who has brought the witness to the stand will ask questions designed to elicit information that supports their case. This type of questioning is meant to build the narrative and credibility of the witness, allowing them to present their testimony without confrontation.

In contrast, cross-examination occurs after direct examination and is performed by the opposing party. The goal in cross-examination often includes challenging the witness's testimony, uncovering inconsistencies, or questioning their credibility. The roles and intentions of questioning in direct and cross-examination are fundamentally different, with direct examination focusing on support and clarification from the witness provided by the party that has called them.