Once the examination in chief of a witness has been completed, he may be cross-examined by the opposite party, i.e., accused person in a criminal case. Usually, the cross-examination can be conducted only once till it is completed. If the cross-examination cannot be completed on a given day, the hearing can be adjourned and the cross-examination can be continued on the next date.
At the same time, the law permits recall of witness by the court if required, even after his evidence has been recorded completely, including the cross-examination. Therefore, after completion of the cross-examination by the accused person, on an application being made by the accused person, the court may permit recall of that witness for further cross-examination if that is necessary in the interests of justice. Subject to this exception, cross-examination is conducted only once, as mentioned above.
Dr. Ashok Dhamija is a New Delhi based Supreme Court Advocate and author of law books. Read more about him by clicking here. List of his Forum Replies. List of his other articles. List of his Quora Answers. List of his YouTube Videos.
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