SCOTTISH EXPERT WITNESS COURSE OVERVIEW

Please note that the times given are only approximate.

COURSE OUTLINE

Five hours CPD

REGISTRATION: 9.45 - 10.00

10.00 - Welcome and Introduction

10.10 EXPERT (SKILLED) EVIDENCE: THE RULES (Presentation and Discussion)

• The legal system and context of evidence
• Factual and opinion evidence – spot the difference
• What is the purpose of expert evidence?
• Who may be an expert witness?
• The duties of an expert witness
• Dealing with the person providing instructions
  
  

11.30 - 11.45 Break

11.45 COMMUNICATING AS AN EXPERT (Presentation and small group work)

• The use of plain English
• Communicating clearly in writing and orally
• Explaining technical terms
  
  

12.45 - 13.30 Lunch

13.30 REPORT WRITING AS AN EXPERT (Presentation and small group work)

• The purpose of a written report
• Structure of a written expert report
• Content of a written expert report
• How not to write an expert report
  
  

14.45 - 1500 Break

15.00 GIVING ORAL EVIDENCE AS AN EXPERT (Presentation and discussion)

• What impression do you wish to create as an expert?
• Accepting the role of the lawyer
• Preparing for oral evidence
• Examination in chief
• Cross-examination
• Re-examination
• Knowing the limits of your expertise
• How to answer questions: tone, length, deference and neutrality
  
  

1600 Q&A AND CLOSE

END OF COURSE: 16.15