TLI4801 January/February Supplementary Exam Memo | Due
January/February 2026 | Techniques in Trial and Litigation (UNISA)
,Question 1:
What is the primary purpose of opening statements in a trial?
• A) To summarize evidence
• B) To outline the case for the jury
• C) To present witness testimonies
• D) To deliver closing arguments
Correct Option: B) To outline the case for the jury
Rationale: Opening statements serve to provide the jury with a roadmap of what to
expect during the trial, including the key issues and evidence that will be presented.
Question 2:
Which of the following is not a function of cross-examination?
• A) To challenge the credibility of a witness
• B) To gather additional evidence
• C) To clarify information provided in direct examination
• D) To create doubt in the minds of jurors
Correct Option: B) To gather additional evidence
Rationale: Cross-examination primarily serves to challenge and clarify the information
provided rather than to introduce new evidence.
Question 3:
During jury selection, attorneys often use a method called "voir dire." What is the main
objective of this process?
• A) To present the case
• B) To select a judge
• C) To assess juror biases and qualifications
• D) To finalize evidence
Correct Option: C) To assess juror biases and qualifications
Rationale: Voir dire is a critical process where attorneys evaluate potential jurors to
ensure they can be impartial and fair in the trial.
Question 4:
What is the standard of proof required in a civil case?
, • A) Beyond a reasonable doubt
• B) Clear and convincing evidence
• C) Preponderance of the evidence
• D) No proof is required
Correct Option: C) Preponderance of the evidence
Rationale: In civil cases, the burden of proof is met when the evidence shows that it is
more likely true than not true, known as "preponderance of the evidence."
Question 5:
Which of the following is considered a method of alternative dispute resolution (ADR)?
• A) Mediation
• B) Trial by jury
• C) Summary judgment
• D) Cross-examination
Correct Option: A) Mediation
Rationale: Mediation is a process where a neutral third-party facilitates a discussion
between disputing parties to help them reach a settlement, which is a key form of ADR.
Question 6:
Which of the following is a common objection during a trial?
• A) Hearsay
• B) Irrelevance
• C) Speculation
• D) All of the above
Correct Option: D) All of the above
Rationale: Objections such as hearsay, irrelevance, and speculation are commonly
raised to challenge the admissibility of evidence or the way questions are posed.
Question 7:
What is the role of the judge during a trial?
• A) To present evidence
• B) To make rulings on legal issues
• C) To advocate for one side
January/February 2026 | Techniques in Trial and Litigation (UNISA)
,Question 1:
What is the primary purpose of opening statements in a trial?
• A) To summarize evidence
• B) To outline the case for the jury
• C) To present witness testimonies
• D) To deliver closing arguments
Correct Option: B) To outline the case for the jury
Rationale: Opening statements serve to provide the jury with a roadmap of what to
expect during the trial, including the key issues and evidence that will be presented.
Question 2:
Which of the following is not a function of cross-examination?
• A) To challenge the credibility of a witness
• B) To gather additional evidence
• C) To clarify information provided in direct examination
• D) To create doubt in the minds of jurors
Correct Option: B) To gather additional evidence
Rationale: Cross-examination primarily serves to challenge and clarify the information
provided rather than to introduce new evidence.
Question 3:
During jury selection, attorneys often use a method called "voir dire." What is the main
objective of this process?
• A) To present the case
• B) To select a judge
• C) To assess juror biases and qualifications
• D) To finalize evidence
Correct Option: C) To assess juror biases and qualifications
Rationale: Voir dire is a critical process where attorneys evaluate potential jurors to
ensure they can be impartial and fair in the trial.
Question 4:
What is the standard of proof required in a civil case?
, • A) Beyond a reasonable doubt
• B) Clear and convincing evidence
• C) Preponderance of the evidence
• D) No proof is required
Correct Option: C) Preponderance of the evidence
Rationale: In civil cases, the burden of proof is met when the evidence shows that it is
more likely true than not true, known as "preponderance of the evidence."
Question 5:
Which of the following is considered a method of alternative dispute resolution (ADR)?
• A) Mediation
• B) Trial by jury
• C) Summary judgment
• D) Cross-examination
Correct Option: A) Mediation
Rationale: Mediation is a process where a neutral third-party facilitates a discussion
between disputing parties to help them reach a settlement, which is a key form of ADR.
Question 6:
Which of the following is a common objection during a trial?
• A) Hearsay
• B) Irrelevance
• C) Speculation
• D) All of the above
Correct Option: D) All of the above
Rationale: Objections such as hearsay, irrelevance, and speculation are commonly
raised to challenge the admissibility of evidence or the way questions are posed.
Question 7:
What is the role of the judge during a trial?
• A) To present evidence
• B) To make rulings on legal issues
• C) To advocate for one side
