Legal Definitions - Q-AND-A

Q-AND-A stands for Question-and-Answer.

In a legal context, "Q-and-A" refers to a structured format of communication where one party poses questions and another party provides responses. This method is fundamental to legal proceedings, discovery, and investigations, serving to elicit information, clarify facts, establish testimony, or gather evidence. It emphasizes a direct exchange of inquiries and replies, often under formal conditions or oath.

• Example 1: Deposition in a Civil Lawsuit

  During the discovery phase of a personal injury lawsuit, a lawyer for the plaintiff conducts a deposition of a key witness. The lawyer asks a series of detailed questions about the accident, the witness's observations, and their actions. The witness, under oath, provides answers to each question. This entire process, where the lawyer systematically asks questions and the witness provides responses, is a classic example of a Q-and-A session, designed to uncover facts and preserve testimony before trial.

• Example 2: Cross-Examination During a Criminal Trial

  In a criminal trial, after the prosecution has presented its direct examination of a witness, the defense attorney conducts a cross-examination. The defense attorney asks pointed questions designed to challenge the witness's credibility, highlight inconsistencies, or elicit information favorable to the defense. The witness must answer these questions directly. This adversarial exchange of questions and answers is a critical Q-and-A segment of trial proceedings, allowing both sides to test the evidence and testimony.

• Example 3: Client Intake Interview

  When a new client seeks legal advice, their attorney conducts an initial intake interview. The attorney asks a comprehensive set of questions about the client's situation, their objectives, relevant dates, involved parties, and any documentation they possess. The client provides detailed answers to help the attorney understand the full scope of their legal issue. This structured conversation, where the attorney systematically gathers information through questions and the client provides answers, is a foundational Q-and-A process for building a legal case.