Are you a healthcare professional who feels anxious or uncertain about writing witness statements or attending a Coroner’s Inquest? This comprehensive, practical course is designed to help you overcome those fears and equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the inquest process smoothly.
This course covers everything from crafting clear, legally sound witness statements to preparing for the courtroom experience. You’ll learn what to expect from the Coroner, how to handle questioning by lawyers, and the practicalities of attending an inquest. By the end of the day, you’ll feel prepared to give clear, honest, and professional evidence, ensuring you represent yourself and your organisation effectively.
Key Benefits
– Step-by-step guidance on writing strong, clear witness statements
– A full breakdown of the Coroner’s Inquest process, including roles, procedures, and outcomes
– Expert advice on how to handle difficult questions and cross-examination
– Practical tips on court etiquette, including what to wear and how to address the Coroner
– Strategies for managing the presence of lawyers, juries, and expert witnesses
Course Content
- Crafting a strong witness statement
- Demystifying the Coroner’s Inquest Process
- Understand the role of juries and expert witnesses
- Preparing for your courtroom experience
- Becoming an effective witness
- Handling lawyer’s questioning techniques
- Dealing with learning response reports
- Post-Inquest outcomes and Prevention of Future Deaths Reports
Course Timetable
| 9.30am to 10.00am | Coffee and Registration |
| 10.00am to 10.30am | Introduction and overview |
| 10.30am to 11.15am | Witness statements |
| 11.15am to 11.30am | Coffee Break |
| 11.30am to 12.00pm | Coronial process explained. Practical issues, court visits, what to wear and possible conclusions. |
| 12.00pm to 12.45pm | What makes an effective witness. |
| 12.45pm to 1.30pm | Lunch |
| 1.30pm to 2.45pm | Cross-examination exercise. Dealing with lawyers and juries. |
| 2.45pm to 3.00pm | Tea Break |
| 3.00pm to 3.30pm | How Coroners use learning response reports. Understanding Reports to Prevent Future Patient Deaths. |
| 3.30pm to 4.00pm | Summary |
| 4.00pm | Conclusion |
