Prepare a witness for what to expect at an employment tribunal

Key points

  • An employer should ensure that a witness giving evidence in an employment tribunal is prepared for what is often a stressful and daunting experience.
  • The preparation should include, for example: how to address the tribunal; the importance of being familiar with the witness statement, which should be in the witness's own words; and how to deal with cross-examination.
  • It is important for the witness to appear confident in their answers; preparation and knowing what to expect can help with this. However, over-rehearsal of evidence can lead to the witness failing to deal with unexpected questions.

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