Defense investigator shares testimony strategies for high-profile trials

When testifying in high-profile cases, preparation and understanding of the situation is key, a defense investigator said Friday.

Lubna Debbini, an investigator and Orange County associate defender from Santa Ana, California, spoke at the National Defender Investigator Association annual regional conference in Scottsdale about her own experiences of testifying on high-profile trials. She also explained how to prepare for certain situations while on the stand in order to avoid stressful encounters.

“Know who you are and how you are,” Debbini emphasized when testifying in any trial of significance.

The conference aims to inform and teach those working as criminal defense investigators, mitigation specialists, paralegals, social workers and attorneys.

Debbini advised the audience members to do their research, cross every possibility before the trial and predict the questions that may be asked.

She stressed to attendees to know what the defense is going to ask before taking the stand. When preparing for those questions, there is less room for the defense to find cracks in the testifier's claims.

The NDIA regional and national conferences travel to different parts of the United States each year, allowing professionals in the criminal field from all areas of the country to have the opportunity to meet. This conference is to teach, inform and prepare attendees for in-field situations.

Debbini has been an investigator for 30 years, working for private investigations, county federal and specialized assignments. She specializes in homicides and high-level crimes.

Debbini began teaching and speaking about her own personal experiences because of difficult situations she has dealt with in her past. Debbini expressed how the rough beginning of her career has carried her into what she is passionate about now.

Attendees of the speech asked Debbini questions about how to act and respond when testifying in unique circumstances. She offered advice on how to not only physically prepare for a high-profile case, but also how to mentally prepare and stay focused while on the stand.

On the day of testifying, Debbini said self-care, like getting enough sleep, breathing exercises and drinking water throughout court, is important.

She also stressed the importance of preparing a witness that will assist in testifying. Communicating what to wear and how and what to answer.

“They’re looking for connection, not looking for answers,” Debbini said.

Witnesses and victims of the crime on trial can assist in the testified statements, but also can shut down and panic. How investigators approach witnesses can make or break a testimony, she said.

Debbini said how the way that an investigator treats the individuals and organizations involved in the trial will directly influence the outcome and impact of testifying. She offered pieces of advice on how to effectively communicate with attorneys.

She also advised bringing lunch, dinner and snacks when meeting to avoid conflict because of hunger.

“Lawyers in trial are little monsters,” Debbini said.

Ava Herman is a student in the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

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