Coroner's Court - Overview

Often witnesses are unprepared for the experience of presenting evidence at an inquest and can find the process daunting. Many witnesses feel they are on trial, rather than giving evidence to assist the coroner.

This practical course is designed to ensure delegates have the support and knowledge to give a truthful, confident and coherent account at a Coroner’s Court inquest.

The course will demystify the process of giving evidence, in which delegates will consider the theory of giving evidence at a Coroner’s court. They will explore the role and responsibilities of everybody involved in an inquest, including their own. Delegates will also take part in a mock Coroner’s Court in which delegates experience being questioned on a realistic case study. This practical role-play allows them to implement the techniques they have learnt during the course in order to remain in control and give effective evidence to the inquest. They will receive feedback on their performance.

Key Learning Points:

By the end of the course delegates will be able to:

• Explain how the inquisitorial system works.
• Identify the procedure, order of events, and the roles and responsibilities of those involved.
• Prepare how to give evidence to best practice.
• Identify lawyers’ techniques of questioning.
• Be able to combat difficult and adversarial questions.
• Learn how to give clear, honest and objective evidence while under questioning.
• Identify possible findings and verdicts of the Coroner.