Courtroom Script: Authenticating Text Messages & iPhone Screenshots
Cross-Examination and Direct Script for Text Messages
When presenting text message evidence, use this verbatim examination script:
Q: "Mr. Witness, I am showing you what has been marked as Plaintiff's Exhibit 7. Do you recognize this document?"
A: "Yes, these are screenshots of text messages between myself and the Defendant."
Q: "Whose phone took these screenshots?"
A: "My personal iPhone."
Q: "What phone number appears at the top of the conversation?"
A: "(555) 321-9876."
Q: "Whose phone number is that?"
A: "That is the Defendant's cell phone number."
Q: "How do you know that is the Defendant's number?"
A: "We have communicated via that number for over three years, and when I call it, the Defendant answers."
Q: "Do these screenshots accurately reflect the conversation you had on June 15, 2024, without alteration?"
A: "Yes, exactly."
"Your Honor, Plaintiff moves Exhibit 7 into evidence."
A: "Yes, these are screenshots of text messages between myself and the Defendant."
Q: "Whose phone took these screenshots?"
A: "My personal iPhone."
Q: "What phone number appears at the top of the conversation?"
A: "(555) 321-9876."
Q: "Whose phone number is that?"
A: "That is the Defendant's cell phone number."
Q: "How do you know that is the Defendant's number?"
A: "We have communicated via that number for over three years, and when I call it, the Defendant answers."
Q: "Do these screenshots accurately reflect the conversation you had on June 15, 2024, without alteration?"
A: "Yes, exactly."
"Your Honor, Plaintiff moves Exhibit 7 into evidence."