See You in Court, Second Edition: A Social Worker's Guide to Presenting Evidence in Care Proceedings

Now fully revised and updated, See You in Court is an accessible guide for social workers on being a witness in care proceedings.

This book de-mystifies the court system explaining court structures and procedures, roles and responsibilities and basic rules of evidence. It considers how to present effective written evidence as well as preparing for the court day itself. It answers questions frequently asked by social workers on how to present oral evidence including how to deal with cross-examination. The material is supported by case studies and checklists. Updates to the second edition reflect recent changes to the family court system, a revised Public Law Outline and the increased recognition of social workers as experts in their own right.

An essential addition to every social worker's bookshelf, particularly those working with children and families.

Acknowledgements. Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. The Legal Context. 3. Who's Who. 4. Evidence. 5. Written Evidence. 6. Statement Presentation. 7. Negotiations and Settlements. 8. Procedure - the Public Outline and Experts. 9. Preparing for Court. 10. Giving Evidence. 11. Cross-Examination. 12. After Court. Appendix 1. Brief Summary of Key Legal Provisions. Appendix 2. Statement Checklist. Appendix 3. Pre-proceedings Letter. Appendix 4. Public Law Outline Flow Chart. Appendix 5. Witness Observation Checklist. Appendix 6. Cross-examination Examples. Appendix 7. End of Case Questionnaire. Index.