Rule 11-611 NMRA
Rule 11-611. Mode and order of examining witnesses and presenting evidence.
A. Control by the court; purposes. The court should exercise reasonable control
over the mode and order of questioning witnesses and presenting evidence so as to
(1)
make those procedures effective for determining the truth,
(2)
avoid wasting time, and
(3)
protect witnesses from harassment or undue embarrassment.
B. Scope of cross-examination. Cross-examination should not go beyond the
subject matter of the direct examination and matters affecting a witness’s credibility. The
court may allow inquiry into additional matters as if on direct examination.
C. Leading questions. Leading questions should not be used on direct
examination except as necessary to develop the witness’s testimony. Ordinarily, the
court should allow leading questions
(1)
on cross-examination, and
(2)
when a party calls a hostile witness, an adverse party, or a witness
identified with an adverse party.