Court Preparation and Testimony

Course Code: FSW 5002

Academic Year: 2024-2025

Individuals working in child protection, probation and parole, forensic mental health and a range of other community services will, at some point in their careers, have to appear in court on behalf of a client or submit legal documentation to the courts. This course is intended to help forensic practice workers to prepare and provide effective documentation and testimony to assist the courts in their deliberations. Students will learn about the history of the legal system, the differences between civil and criminal law and the role of counsel. Rules and regulations surrounding evidence will be discussed, allowing students to learn about how one qualifies as an expert witness and how expert reports are prepared and used. This course will also cover specifics about courtroom demeanour, how to deliver testimony, how to deal with cross examination, the multidisciplinary issues of collaboration and confrontation and, finally, what to do when things go wrong in court.