The Investigating the Science of Human Disappearance null ## Gathering Information About the Case In addition to gathering information about the witness, it is also important to gather information about the case itself. This includes the * **The facts of the case**. What happened, and when did it happen? Who was involved? What evidence is there? * **The charges against the defendant**. What are the specific charges against the defendant? What are the penalties for each charge? * **The relevant laws**. What laws apply to this case? What are the definitions of the crimes that the defendant is charged with? * **The timeline of events**. When did each event happen? How long did each event last? * **The evidence in the case**. What evidence is there against the defendant? What evidence is there in the defendant's favor? Gathering this information will help you to understand the case and to develop a strategy for your defense. It will also help you to prepare for your cross-examination of the witness.