Objection! Calls for a “Conclusion”

If you want to learn a bit about courtroom procedure, look no further than “Perry Mason.” In a jury trial, fact witnesses can be asked what they saw, heard, did, and numerous other “facts” — but they cannot be asked to offer a conclusion on the meaning or legal import of those facts. If District Attorney Burger asked Lt. Tragg whether the defendant murdered the victim, Perry Mason would (properly) object that the question calls for a “conclusion” based on the facts, something only the jury can draw. (Objection sustained.)
– Kevin Palmer