Throughout expert testimony, the witness should be aware of proper breath control and maintain an upright posture.

The expert should convey confidence to the audience when called to testify and should walk to the witness stand with a natural gait and with purpose. The witness should make sure that his voice, at the first "I do" when sworn under oath to tell the truth, comes across clear, strong and audible to everyone in the room.

The expert should use voice tone, volume and modulation to:

• Maintain interest in the testimony.
• Vary the presentation.
• Keep everyone alert.

A conversational tone is the norm, but the expert should capture the attention of the fact finder(s) and make sure that testimony can be heard throughout the room. As the expert begins speaking, audience observation will verify that no one in the room, particularly the judge or jurors, is straining to hear the testimony.

Testimonial communication is no different than normal communication. The expert should speak clearly and simply. Responses should be limited to the question asked. The expert who has completed all of the homework will be confident in every conclusion, and positive in tone and testimony.

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