Which term describes the examination of a witness in a court of law?

The term "examination" is often used in the context of legal proceedings to refer to the systematic questioning of a witness in court. This process involves gathering the witness's testimony to present relevant facts and information to the judge and jury.

In a court setting, the examination is typically divided into two main phases: the direct examination, where a party's own witness is questioned to provide evidence supporting that party's case, and cross-examination, which is when the opposing party questions the same witness to challenge the credibility or reliability of their statements.

The other terms, while related to the process of gathering witness testimony, are more specific and do not encompass the broader procedure of examining a witness in a court of law. "Cross-examination" specifically refers to the questioning by the opposing party, while "testimonial hearing" and "witness inquiry" do not accurately capture the legal terminology commonly used in this context. Thus, "examination" serves as the most accurate and encompassing term for this legal procedure.