Courtroom Testimony

March 30-April 3, 2009

$695

Class times 830-430

Effective courtroom testimony is a skill that every law enforcement officer must master in order to complete the job. Going to court is often a stressful situation even for highly experienced officers. Cagey defense attorneys, hostile judges, nosy reporters, helpless victims and arcane procedures add to the confusion and stress. COURTROOM TESTIMONY presented by the Henry C. Lee Institute of Forensic Science provides a unique training experience to give officers the opportunity to learn the why’s and how’s of the courtroom and then practice testimony in front of, and assisted by, attorneys and judges.

COURTROOM TESTIMONY is designed for law enforcement officers and forensic laboratory personnel who must appear in court. While the emphasis will be placed on giving those with little experience the opportunity to practice their presentation, the course is also open to those with substantial courtroom time who want to improve their presentation of evidence.

COURTROOM TESTIMONY is a practical hands on course. Everyone will have the chance to testify and be cross-examined.

DAY 1
Review of Evidence and Court Room Procedure
Effective Direct Testimony and Cross Examination
Concepts of Effective Testimony
Testimony in High Profile Cases

DAY 2
Prosecutor’s Perspective on Effective Testimony
Defense Attorney's Perspective on Cross Examination

DAY 3
Voir Dire Qualification
Role Playing: Presenting Your Qualifications

DAY 4
Trial Judge’s Perspective on Effective Testimony
Role Playing: Case Presentations

DAY 5
Role Playing: Case Presentation