Is it correct to say closed questions should never be asked when interviewing a witness?

Closed questions are specific questions that typically require a short, definitive answer, such as "yes" or "no." While open-ended questions can encourage a witness to provide detailed responses and elaborate on their experiences, closed questions can still serve an important purpose in interviews.

Asking closed questions can help clarify specific details or confirm facts when the interviewer needs straightforward, direct answers. For example, if a witness claims they saw a suspect at a particular time, the investigator might ask a closed question for confirmation: "Did the suspect wear a blue jacket?" This type of questioning can help to hone in on specifics that can be critical for the investigation, allowing the interviewer to gather precise data without leading the witness.

In short, closed questions can be appropriate and useful during witness interviews, especially when trying to concentrate on particular facts or to verify information already provided. Thus, the answer reflects the nuance that while open-ended questions should be utilized for broader discussions, there are contexts where closed questions are necessary and beneficial.