Direct examination is generally the most important part of a respondent's immigration court removal proceedings. Direct examination provides the opportunity for the respondent to tell their story to the IJ, and it is critical to the success of the case that the representative skillfully and persuasively helps guide the respondent and other witnesses through their narrative to put the strongest case before the IJ and build the best record in the event of an appeal. This practice advisory will discuss the basics of direct examination and will give tips and strategies specific to eliciting testimony in immigration court.