Common Nonsubstantive Objections
Leading (direct only)
A question that suggests its own answer
Compound
A question with two inquiries, where a single
answer may be misleading
Vague
A question that is incomprehensible or
incomplete
Argumentative
A question that insists that the witness accept
the examiner’s summary, inference, or
conclusion
(Calls for) Narrative
(A question that attempts to elicit) an answer
that is longer than a few sentences
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Common Nonsubstantive Objections
Asked and Answered
A question that is duplicative of one already
asked of the witness by the same counsel
Assumes Facts Not in
Evidence
A question that includes a statement of fact not
yet proven; used as a predicate for the inquiry
Nonresponsive (cross only) Testimony that does not answer the specific
question asked
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