Simple English definitions for legal terms
Read a random definition: non usurpavit
The witness stand is where a person goes to talk in court. It's like a little stage where they stand or sit and answer questions. It's usually on the left side of the judge and a bit lower. When someone is asked to talk in court, they "take the stand."
Definition: The witness stand is the place in a courtroom where a person who is giving evidence sits or stands. It is usually a raised platform to the left of the judge's seat. When a witness is asked to give evidence, they are said to "take the stand."
During the trial, the witness was asked to take the stand and swear to tell the truth.
The defendant's lawyer cross-examined the witness on the stand.
These examples illustrate how the witness stand is a physical location in a courtroom where a witness gives evidence. When a witness takes the stand, they are in a position to be questioned by the lawyers and judged by the judge and jury.