However, the greater fear should be that the witnesses' nervousness over their testimony should lead them to exhibit cues which are mistaken by the jurors as reflecting deception or lack of confidence in their testimony. I recommend that critical witnesses be prepared in such a manner. In this way, the attorney has an opportunity to identify and remedy undesirable verbal and nonverbal behavior. Simply, it means that witnesses should be sufficiently prepared for the experience so that they can communicate their testimony in an effective manner consistent with the image that the attorney wants to project. Second, the witness should be familiar with any exhibits that will be used and how they will be used in the courtroom.
Jurors can react very negatively to an expert making simple mistakes when using exhibits at trial.
This problem is minimized with advance preparation. Third, witnesses should be given direction in how they should dress. Witnesses should dress conservatively, projecting the image of respect for the gravity of the situation. Witnesses should not overdress or wear clothing that is inconsistent with their economic background or the image that the attorney wants to project. Fourth, witnesses should be instructed on how they should conduct themselves when not on the witness stand.