Witness statements

In England and Wales, each side prepares witness statements, setting out the facts relating to the claim. In Scotland, witness statements are not used. Instead witnesses give their evidence verbally. The witness evidence is tested through a process known as cross-examination.

The tribunal panel should also ask the witnesses questions if they have concerns or need clarification about any aspects of their evidence. Since tribunal proceedings are in public, it is a good idea to sit in on someone else’s tribunal hearing to get a better idea of what to expect.