Preparing to Testify: Jack Rice Discusses Criminal Defense Strategy on Court TV
Jack Rice recently appeared on Court TV to discuss one of the most high-stakes elements of any criminal trial: preparing a defendant to testify. With decades of experience as both a criminal defense attorney and a former prosecutor, Jack broke down the strategies and considerations involved when putting a client on the stand. If you have been charged with a crime in St. Paul, Ramsey County or anywhere in the Twin Cities, contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.
Testifying in your own defense is never a decision taken lightly. It can be powerful but risky. If you are facing serious criminal charges, your testimony may be the most important moment of your trial. Preparation is critical. Here’s how Jack Rice approaches that process with clients:
How to Prepare a Defendant to Testify at Trial
1. Decide If the Defendant Should Testify at All
Before anything else, the defense team must decide whether the defendant should testify. Every case is different. Jack weighs the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case, the client’s background, and how well the client may hold up under cross-examination. The decision is strategic — and not every client should take the stand.
2. Educate the Client on the Legal Process
Clients need to understand what to expect in court from how questions will be asked to how jurors perceive body language and tone. Jack walks clients through the flow of testimony, courtroom procedure, and what prosecutors are likely to do on cross.
3. Conduct Mock Questioning Sessions
Practice makes all the difference. Jack conducts multiple mock direct and cross-examinations with clients. These sessions are often videotaped and reviewed so clients can see themselves from the jury’s point of view. It’s not just about what you say it’s how you say it.
4. Teach the Client to Tell the Truth — Clearly
Jack always tells his clients: Be honest, be clear, and be human. Juries respond to authenticity. Trying to “win” or “outsmart” the prosecution almost always backfires. Jack teaches clients how to tell their story truthfully and simply with credibility.
5. Prepare for Cross-Examination Traps
Prosecutors are trained to rattle defendants. Jack prepares his clients to remain calm, stay focused, and avoid emotional or defensive reactions. That includes training on how to handle trick questions, repeated questions, and accusations.
6. Address Weaknesses in Advance
Every defendant has facts that may not help their case. Jack never hides from them instead, he addresses them head-on. If a prior conviction or questionable decision will come up, it’s better to acknowledge it than be caught off guard.
7. Focus on the Big Picture
Jack reminds clients that their testimony is just one piece of the larger trial. Nervousness is normal, and perfection isn’t the goal. The aim is to connect with the jury, tell your truth, and reinforce the defense’s case theory.
If you are facing serious criminal charges in St. Paul, Ramsey County, or anywhere in the Twin Cities, your future is on the line. Whether the charge is assault, drug possession, DWI, or homicide, the courtroom is not a place for guesswork.
Jack Rice Defense brings the experience of a former prosecutor, a skilled trial lawyer, and a nationally recognized legal analyst to your case. If you’re considering testifying — or wondering if you should — contact Jack Rice Defense for a free and confidential consultation at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.
Your life, your liberty, and your reputation matter. Prepare with purpose. Fight smart.