Which of the following is NOT a method to impeach a witness?

The method of impeachment involves challenging a witness's credibility or reliability in various ways. In this context, the correct response identifies a method that does not serve this purpose.

Leading questions during direct examination are generally considered a method to elicit information rather than to impeach a witness. Direct examination is intended to help the witness provide their account in a structured way, often requiring open-ended questions that allow the witness to explain their narrative. Leading questions, which suggest their own answers, are more appropriate during cross-examination, where the goal may include discrediting the witness or revealing inconsistencies.

In contrast, cross-examination, extrinsic evidence, and testimony of other witnesses are established methods of impeachment. Cross-examination allows an opposing party to question a witness about their testimony and can expose inconsistencies or biases. Extrinsic evidence refers to evidence outside the witness's own testimony and can be used to demonstrate prior inconsistent statements, for instance. Testimony of other witnesses can also be utilized to challenge the credibility of the original witness by presenting contrasting evidence or accounts.

In summary, leading questions during direct examination do not directly impeach a witness, distinguishing it from other means typically employed to challenge witness credibility.