Environment and Sustainability – Bespoke Witness Skills Training for Government Agencies

Client Background

The Blacktown City Council Sustainability and Environment team undertake various investigations, inspections and assessments in relation to all environmental and similar concerns in Blacktown, Western Sydney.  The team are regularly called to consider development applications for environmental factors and considerations, advise on policy and undertake investigations into local environmental practices.

As part of this role they are regularly called on provide expert reports and evidence.

Training Provided

Loquitur provided a bespoke full day “in house” training session to the Blacktown City Council Environment and Sustainability team on Witness Skills for Government Agency Staff in Court

Topics covered included:

• Fundamentals of cross examination:
  • Evidential and Trial Process
  • Roles of Witnesses
  • Giving Evidence under Cross Examination
  • Conclaves
  • Cross examination strategies and countermeasures
• Practical mock cross examinations for team members as part of group based on bespoke materials in prior, concluded proceedings.
• Instructor and team feedback

This training allowed attendees to understand and comprehend the materials taught, to practice the techniques taught, and provided confidence and experience to Council staff for when they are called to be expert witnesses.