Ill. R. Evid. 611

As amended through March 29, 2024
Rule 611 - Mode and Order of Interrogation and Presentation
(a)Control by Court. The court shall exercise reasonable control over the mode and order of interrogating witnesses and presenting evidence so as to (1) make the interrogation and presentation effective for the ascertainment of the truth, (2) avoid needless consumption of time, and (3) protect witnesses from harassment or undue embarrassment.
(b) Scope of Cross-Examination. Cross-examination should be limited to the subject matter of the direct examination and matters affecting the credibility of the witness, which include matters within the knowledge of the witness that explain, qualify, discredit or destroy the witness's direct testimony. The court may, in the exercise of discretion, permit inquiry into additional matters as if on direct examination.
(c)Leading Questions. Leading questions should not be used on the direct examination of a witness except as may be necessary to develop the witness' testimony. Ordinarily leading questions should be permitted on cross-examination. When a party calls a hostile or an unwilling witness or an adverse party or an agent of an adverse party as defined by section 2-1102 of the Code of Civil Procedure (735 ILCS 5/2-1102 ), interrogation may be by leading questions.

Ill. R. Evid. 611

Adopted September 27, 2010, eff. 1/1/2011; amended 10/15/2015, eff. immediately.