What should I do if the other side's lawyer makes me angry?

Cross-examination can feel personal. The lawyer may suggest you are mistaken, biased or untruthful, repeat the same question, or put things in a way that seems unfair. Feeling angry is a natural human response. This guide explains why it matters to stay composed, and practical ways to do so. It is court familiarisation; the goal is accurate, truthful evidence.

Why do I feel angry?

You know what happened, and someone is publicly suggesting otherwise. You may feel your honesty is under attack. You may also be tired, nervous, or upset by the events the case is about. All of these make anger more likely.

It helps to remember that the cross-examining lawyer is doing a job: testing evidence and putting their client's case. See when the lawyer says you are lying. It is usually not personal.

Why does anger hurt my evidence?

• You stop listening carefully. Angry witnesses often answer the question they expect, not the one asked.
• You may exaggerate or say things you do not mean.
• You may argue instead of answering, which can make you appear partisan.
• Mistakes become more likely, and mistakes can be used to challenge your reliability.

The judge decides the case on the evidence. A calm, accurate answer is always more useful than a heated one.

Have a question about your own situation? Ask on WhatsApp

What can I do in the moment?

1. Pause. You do not have to answer instantly.
2. Breathe slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth.
3. Take a sip of water. Most courts provide water for witnesses; ask if none is there.
4. Look at the judge and answer to the judge, if that helps you stay calm.
5. Answer the question only, briefly and truthfully. See why shorter answers help.
6. Ask for a short break if you feel overwhelmed. The judge decides whether to allow it.

What protects me from improper questions?

The Evidence Act 1950 gives the court control over cross-examination. Questions must have reasonable grounds (section 149), and the court may forbid questions it regards as indecent or scandalous (section 151) or intended to insult or annoy, or needlessly offensive in form (section 152). Usually the lawyer who called you will object if a question crosses the line. You may also say politely to the judge that you find a question offensive, and let the judge decide.

What should I avoid?

• Raising your voice or using sarcasm.
• Insulting the lawyer or the other party.
• Refusing to answer a proper question because you are upset.
• Agreeing to something untrue just to end the questioning.
• Making faces or gestures in reaction to answers.

What should I prepare?

• Accept in advance that your evidence will be challenged.
• Understand what cross-examination is for; see the types of cross-examination questions.
• Sleep and eat properly before court; tiredness shortens tempers. See managing nerves before court.
• If there are subjects that are especially painful, tell the lawyer who called you beforehand.

Example

In a partnership dispute, a witness was asked the same question about a payment four times in different ways. He felt his temper rising. He paused, drank some water, and said calmly: "My answer is the same as before. I made the payment on 10 March, as shown in the bank statement." His composure made his evidence clearer.

What if cross-examination goes on for hours or days?

Long cross-examination is tiring, and fatigue makes anger more likely. Use every adjournment and lunch break to rest, eat and drink water. Remember that while you are under cross-examination you should generally not discuss your evidence with anyone, including the lawyer who called you, unless the court allows it. If the hearing continues the next day, try to sleep normally rather than replaying the questions. Each morning, start fresh: listen to each question on its own, and answer it truthfully.

When to speak to a lawyer

If you expect to face hostile questioning about sensitive matters, or you are a vulnerable witness, tell the lawyer or prosecutor who called you early so the court can be informed if needed. Contact us; every case depends on its facts.

Frequently asked questions

Is it allowed for a lawyer to be aggressive?

Firm cross-examination is allowed. Questions intended merely to insult or annoy can be disallowed by the judge.

Can I complain directly to the judge?

You may politely tell the judge that you find a question offensive. The judge decides.

Will losing my temper make me lose the case?

Cases are decided on all the evidence, but an angry, argumentative manner can affect how your evidence is assessed.

What if I already snapped at the lawyer?

Apologise briefly and continue calmly. Then answer the question truthfully.

Can I refuse to answer an insulting question?

Ask the judge whether you must answer. Do not simply refuse.

Sources & fact check

Legal points in this article were checked against the primary sources below. The law can change; this is general information, not legal advice.

1. Evidence Act 1950 (Act 56), Part III Chapter X: examination of witnesses (ss.137-166), AGC Laws of Malaysia
2. Office of the Chief Registrar, Federal Court of Malaysia (Judiciary portal)

Fact-checked on 17 Oct 2026