Who is typically the first witness to testify in a trial?

In a trial, the party itself is often the first witness to testify because they can provide direct insight into their case, their experiences, and their perceptions of the events that are in dispute. This initial testimony sets the context for the trial, allowing the jury or judge to understand the party's standpoint and the specific claims being brought forward.

When a party takes the stand first, they can present their narrative, which is fundamental for establishing the groundwork for the arguments that will follow. The testimony of the party establishes critical facts and can lay the foundation for additional evidence and witness testimonies that will be presented later in the trial.

Other types of witnesses, such as legal experts or character witnesses, may be important to the case, but they typically follow after the primary party has given their account. Additionally, court-appointed mediators usually do not testify in trials as they serve a different role in the legal process, focusing on facilitating dispute resolution rather than providing evidence. Therefore, commencing the testimony with the party itself ensures that the trial is anchored in personal accounts relevant to the case being adjudicated.