It’s not often we get to see video of courtroom testimony, especially in family law matters. But the Lakeeta Hill v. Tyreek Hill divorce kicked off this week and it comes with a 3 minute video clip. This time we write first and then invite readers to look at the clip.
The testimony is painful. Lakeeta is offering that Tyreek knowingly punched her in the abdomen while pregnant and that he did not want another child by her. The relevance of this testimony seems fairly thin. Our brief research indicates Florida is a pure no-fault state but misconduct might affect property distributions and alimony awards. You will see the camera pan to include the judge, who does not seem interested.
Meanwhile, we note Lakeeta is presenting some “witness” problems. She is being questioned by her own attorney, and he is being gentle with her. He is standing between a lectern and the witness box. He’s doing that because he wants her to face him as she testifies. That is so the judge can see her face in what should be a real conversation about this incident.
But Lakeeta is looking off to her right and at points she is shielding her face with her hand. There is nothing wrong with what she is saying. But her look is one of detachment from her own testimony.
Clients often ask about how they should testify: “Should I look at the judge or at you (the lawyer)?” My answer to clients was “Look mostly at me because we are having a conversation. But there are times when it’s fine to answer to the judge, acknowledging that he is the “decider” of this case. If you just look only at the judge, it appears as if you are trying to curry favor and ignore your lawyer. But, the judge, who decides credibility, should always be able to see your face.”
Lakeeta is almost hiding as she looks away from the judge, Mr. Hill and her own attorney. It’s understandable that she doesn’t want to engage with her ex. But when she looks away from the friendly lawyer asking her questions, the message is one of detachment from the narrative she is presenting. It may also explain why the judge seems uninterested. He can’t see her face when she testifies. He can’t evaluate whether the tears are real or contrived.
So, look at your lawyer when he asks questions of you on the stand. And be certain the judge can see your face as you tell your story. That’s the reason we have courtrooms and a box for the witness to sit in.
Here’s the clip: The abuse got worse and worse: Tyreek Hill’s wife details disturbing allegations on first day of trial