How to Support Vulnerable Witnesses in Family Law Proceedings

Introduction

This virtual classroom seminar will focus on how to support vulnerable witnesses in family proceedings. Vulnerability is not always obvious and it is important that practitioners are aware of the various aspects of vulnerability and what can be done to assist and support witnesses when giving evidence.

An overview of the applicable law and rules will be considered together with what amounts to a vulnerable witness, how to identify vulnerability and the support options available to such persons.

Real examples will be provided to give you the opportunity to analyse and learn interactively.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive session will cover the following:

• What vulnerability is
• A recap on the law governing vulnerability - particular reference to Part 1, Part 3A, Practice Direction 3AA and Practice Direction 3AB Family Procedure Rules 2010, The Advocate’s Gateway Toolkits and the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. Principle cases will also be explored, including the interesting case of CM v IP [2022]
• How vulnerability is identified
• What practitioners can do to support vulnerability, including the implementation of ground rules

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.