A more thorough explanation:

When a lawyer wants to approach a witness during direct or cross-examination, they must first ask the judge for permission. This is called "permission to approach the witness."

The lawyer will usually say something like:

"Your honor, may I approach the witness?"

or

"Permission to approach the witness, your honor?"

For example, if a lawyer is questioning a witness and wants to show them a document, they might ask the judge for permission to approach the witness so they can hand them the document.

This practice is common in many courts and helps maintain order and respect for the court proceedings. It also ensures that the witness is not intimidated or harassed by the lawyer.