Rule 5-611 - Mode and Order of Interrogation and Presentation: Control by Court; Scope of Cross-Examination; Leading Questions(a) Control by Court. The court shall exercise reasonable control over the mode and order of interrogating witnesses and presenting evidence so as to (1) make the interrogation and presentation effective for the ascertainment of the truth, (2) avoid needless consumption of time, and (3) protect witnesses from harassment or undue embarrassment. Cross reference: For the Court Dog Program, see Code, Courts Article, § 9-501.
(b)Scope of Cross-Examination.(1) Except as provided in subsection (b)(2), cross-examination should be limited to the subject matter of the direct examination and matters affecting the credibility of the witness. Except for the cross-examination of an accused who testifies on a preliminary matter, the court may, in the exercise of discretion, permit inquiry into additional matters as if on direct examination.(2) An accused who testifies on a non-preliminary matter may be cross-examined on any matter relevant to any issue in the action.(c) Leading Questions. The allowance of leading questions rests in the discretion of the trial court. Ordinarily, leading questions should not be allowed on the direct examination of a witness except as may be necessary to develop the witness's testimony. Ordinarily, leading questions should be allowed (1) on cross-examination or (2) on the direct examination of a hostile witness, an adverse party, or a witness identified with an adverse party. This Rule is derived from F.R.Ev. 611.
Adopted Dec. 15, 1993, eff. 7/1/1994; amended March 30, 2021, eff. 7/1/2021; amended Feb. 9, 2022, eff. 4/1/2022.