In federal court, all lawyers run into the challenge of an overbearing judge. It can happen in state court. But, generally, pushy judges are mot likely to be encountered in federal court. In the Paul Manafort trial, the judge is not necessary overbearing, but he constantly presses the two sides to avoid lengthy, tedious testimony. That pressure has led to verbal fencing between the judge and the prosecutor.

For example, there was this exchange between Greg Andres, the prosecutor and Judge T.S. Ellis:

“The day’s first significant altercation came as Andres sought to question Manafort’s former  deputy, Rick Gates,            about his travels, using his passport as a visual aid.

“Let’s go to the heart of the matter,” Ellis said.

“Judge, we’ve been at the heart. …” Andres replied, before the judge cut him off.

“Just listen to me. … Don’t speak while I’m speaking,” the judge said, sharply. He added that he didn’t see how the testimony on travel “amounts to a hill of beans” with regard to the charges against Manafort, the former Trump campaign chairman.

See Politico news report.

There have been several such instances of Mr. Andres sniping at the judge and the judge fussing at him for perceived lack of respect, not looking at the judge, rolling his eyes, etc. In a criminal trial, the prosecutor can sometimes take the judge on like that. But, in a civil trial. the jury will perceive it as bad that the judge is fussing at a lawyer. So, usually in civil trials, we do not fuss back. In any event, it is frustrating that some judges will not let you provide testimony you believe essential to your case.