Level Up The Playing Field!

It doesn't matter whether you're going to court due to experiencing domestic abuse, a parent who is separating, or a professional giving evidence in court, there really is no level playing field when you are up against barristers whilst in the witness box.

What has to be borne in mind is that pretty much everything is slanted in favour of those cross-examining you.

Whilst at court you're in an environment that is described as adversarial, where you have to obey rules that are really alien to most people. You are placed in a witness box, whether you want to be there or not, in full view of those in the court, because the spotlight is on you, and everything you do or say is being scrutinised.

Public speaking is widely known to be something that is terrifying to the majority of people, and speaking whilst in the witness box is a form of public speaking. Your audience albeit a very small one, are comprised of those who may be sceptical and highly opposed to you.

Your role is to answer questions, not to ask them, except as a means to clarify questions asked of you.

The barrister's cross examining you have spent countless hours honing their skills, on people like you and me - and unsurprisingly have become really good at what they do.

I am sure by now you've got the picture!

So, that being the case, if you're going to give yourself the best opportunity of doing well at court, you're going to have to spend a considerable amount of time preparing yourself, not just to answer questions concerning the case (although this is crucial) but even more importantly, in my view, to master your emotions and behaviour.

Essentially, in order to 'level the playing field' as much as possible you have to master what I refer to as my 4 step system.

You have to learn how to be calm and in control of your thoughts, feelings and actions externally, even when you may feel like jelly internally. You have to display a great attitude throughout, irrespective of the way you are being treated by those cross-examining you, including the judge.

In addition, you have to have the capacity to listen attentively, being mindful to give responses that elevate your evidence and the way it has been presented, above those of others, such that the judge can't help but prefer it and value it highly.

In my view, you have to do a lot of work to move towards 'levelling up the playing field,' but if you work consistently and diligently it can be done within a surprisingly short period of time.

No one deserves to leave court feeling battered, bruised, or worse still traumatised and horrified at the thought of ever returning, but you and or your organisation need to recognise how important it is to begin to 'level the playing field.'