Court Hearings Explained: What to Expect and How to Prepare as a Witness

Contents Attending court as a witness can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time. Whether you’re involved in a criminal, civil, commercial or family case, it’s completely normal to feel unsure about what lies ahead. This guide is designed to give you a clear, straightforward understanding of what happens during a court hearing and […]

What Is a Mock Trial? A Step-by-Step Guide for Witnesses and Organisations

Article author Contents A mock trial is a simulated court proceeding that mirrors a real trial as closely as possible. It involves barristers, solicitors, judges, and witnesses, and is typically conducted in a courtroom or similar setting. The goal is to better understand the key elements of how a case would generally be run in […]

Expert Witness Agreement: What It Is and Why You Need One

Contents In legal proceedings, expert witnesses play a crucial role in providing specialised knowledge that helps courts and tribunals make informed decisions. Whether in civil, criminal, or commercial cases, their expertise can be pivotal in clarifying complex technical, specialised matters of which the court has no inherent knowledge. To ensure a smooth instruction and a […]

Subpoena to Testify as a Witness: What It Means and What to Do

Contents Receiving a subpoena to testify as a witness can be intimidating, especially if you are unfamiliar with the legal process. However, understanding what it means and knowing what steps to take can make the experience far less stressful. To answer these questions we must first ask “what is a subpoena?”: In short, it’s a […]

What Is an Expert Witness? The Key Role They Play in Court

Contents In the courtroom, where complex facts and technical jargon can often cloud the issues at hand, expert witnesses serve as invaluable guides, bringing clarity to intricate and specific subjects.  An expert witness is more than just a knowledgeable professional; they are a trusted authority, called upon to provide impartial insight and evidence in cases […]

What is Witness Familiarisation? Purpose, Courses, and Ethics

Contents Witness familiarisation is a critical yet often misunderstood process within the legal system. It aims to prepare witnesses for the courtroom environment, ensuring they understand the procedures and can deliver their testimony effectively.  Witness familiarisation is designed not to influence the content of testimony – indeed, it cannot influence the evidence to be given. […]

Cross-Examination 101: What Witnesses Should Know in 2025?

Contents For witnesses, understanding the purpose and process of cross-examination can make a significant difference in how they present their evidence and handle challenging questions. This guide by Loquitur offers a clear, straightforward look at cross-examination from the witness’ perspective—exploring what it is, why it matters, and what to expect when taking the stand. From […]

Who Can Be a Witness in Court? The Rules You Need to Know

Contents In any legal proceeding, the role of a witness is vital in helping the court establish the facts of a case. Whether it’s a criminal trial, civil lawsuit, family matter or a commercial damages claim, witnesses can provide crucial testimony that informs a judge or jury’s decision.  However, not everyone is eligible to serve […]

How to Write a Witness Statement: A Step-by-Step Guide [+Template]

Contents Writing a witness statement can feel daunting, but it’s an essential part of many legal processes. Whether you’re involved in a civil case, a criminal case or a family law case, a well-prepared statement ensures your account of events is clear, accurate, and legally sound.  This guide by Loquitur will walk you through everything […]

How to Build Your Profile as an Expert Witness?

Contents How can I build my profile as an expert witness?  What are the best ways to promote my services as an expert witness? How can I get more instructions as an expert witness? These are all questions most expert witnesses have asked themselves at one point or another.  And they are questions to which […]