Courtroom Confidence: Giving Better Evidence

A 3-Hour Online Masterclass for Witnesses, Professionals & Business Representatives

Delivered by experienced Chancery and Commercial Barristers (England & Wales)

Course Overview

Giving evidence can be one of the most challenging moments for any professional, manager, or individual involved in a legal dispute. Whether in the County Court, High Court, or a tribunal, your credibility, clarity, and composure directly influence how your evidence is received.

“Courtroom Confidence: Giving Better Evidence” is a focused, interactive session designed to help anyone required to give evidence — whether as a party, company representative, or professional/expert witness — to understand what to expect, avoid common pitfalls, and deliver clear, persuasive, and credible evidence.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this session, participants will:

  • Understand the structure and purpose of giving evidence in court or tribunal hearings.

  • Recognise the roles of the judge, advocates, and other participants in the process.

  • Learn how to prepare effectively for examination and cross-examination.

  • Develop techniques for staying calm under questioning and managing nerves.

  • Understand what makes evidence credible, consistent, and persuasive.

  • Know how to handle difficult or hostile questions with composure.

  • Gain insight into courtroom etiquette, language, and communication style.

  • Leave with practical tips, checklists, and strategies for giving better evidence.

Duration

3 hours (live online via Teams)
Includes short breaks, interactive exercises, and Q&A.

Course Outline

1. Understanding the Process

  • The role of the witness in civil proceedings and tribunals

  • The sequence of a hearing: from oath to cross-examination

  • Who asks questions and why: the roles of judge, counsel, and parties

  • What judges look for in a good witness

2. Preparing to Give Evidence

  • Reviewing your witness statement effectively

  • Refreshing memory without leading or rehearsing improperly

  • Understanding your duty to the court

  • Key documents, exhibits, and how to refer to them

  • Managing anxiety and nerves before the hearing

3. Delivering Clear and Credible Evidence

  • Verbal and non-verbal communication skills

  • Tone, pace, and clarity — how to speak so you’re understood

  • Staying composed under pressure

  • Recognising and avoiding advocacy traps

  • Dealing with “I don’t know” or “I can’t remember”

  • Managing difficult or unfair questioning

4. The Cross-Examination Experience

  • What barristers are trying to achieve

  • Spotting and responding to leading or loaded questions

  • Keeping answers concise, accurate, and neutral

  • Handling challenges to your credibility or reliability

  • Staying professional even when provoked

5. Practical Exercise: Simulated Cross-Examination

  • Short mock exercise based on a sample witness scenario

  • Barrister conducts brief questioning; group observes

  • Group discussion: what went well, what could improve

  • Key lessons distilled

6. Takeaway Toolkit

  • “Top 10 Tips for Giving Better Evidence”

  • Courtroom etiquette checklist

  • Witness preparation guide (for self or HR/legal teams)

  • Certificate of completion

Who Should Attend

  • Business owners, directors, and managers likely to appear in court

  • Professionals or experts giving factual or opinion evidence

  • HR, compliance, and risk professionals involved in disputes

  • Litigants in person or company representatives

  • Anyone wishing to understand the witness experience in civil proceedings

Format & Delivery

  • Live online session with experienced barrister

  • Small group format for interaction and questions

  • Includes live Q&A and optional follow-up materials

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