Trial Preparation, Testimony, and Prosecution Strategy
Course Description
Testifying successfully as a witness requires that personnel know how to communicate information to the court and to juries in response to open-ended and closed-ended questions in a way that is precise, objective, and credible. Students will learn how to prepare themselves and their cases to give testimony in a hearing or at trial. Students will also learn through hands-on exercises and role-playing strategies they can use to communicate in a clear and compelling way while testifying.
Competencies:
Participants will introduce public safety officers and other agency personnel to the information and skills necessary to testify effectively at depositions, court hearings, and trials.
Course Objectives:
- Describe and discuss the role of the witness and the different types of witnesses
- List the various ways a witness can prepare before giving testimony in a case
- Using precise language, respond effectively to open-ended and closed-ended questions
- Describe the importance of dress, demeanor, and body language when testifying
- Identify ways in which the witness's credibility and objectivity can be threatened
- Recognize and avoid objectionable testimony including hearsay, speculation, and testimony that lacks foundation
Instructional Methods
- Lecture and guided discussions
- Role-playing exercises
Who Should Attend
- Sworn and paid public safety officers, volunteer law enforcement auxiliary members, and agency support personnel such as records custodians and evidence technicians
For those with dorm room reservation, you may check in the evening before your training starts. Please come to the Main KLETC Entrance, it is near the flagpole and marked with a large "B". More information will be provided through email approximately one week before the start of training. Checkout time is Noon on your departure day or last day of training, please have all personal items removed at that time.
Law Enforcement officers attending continuing education training are permitted to carry their firearm while on the KLETC campus. Law enforcement officers carrying a firearm on the KLETC campus must possess appropriate agency identification. We are a tobacco and alcohol-free campus.
Refund/Cancellation Policy: A full refund of lodging fees will be available if requested in writing coned@kletc.org or kletc@kletc.org and received by KLETC ten days prior to the beginning date of the seminar. After that date, but prior to the seminar, refunds will be made, but a $25.00 administrative fee will be charged. No refunds will be made after the starting date of the seminar. If you have any questions concerning this session, please contact KLETC at 620.694.1400 or by email. Thank you again for your willingness to participate. We look forward to seeing you at KLETC!!