Witness Statements and Expert Reports

Witness Statements

• Required for all claimants and defendants
• Prepare early in the case
• Include only firsthand experiences
• Use numbered paragraphs
• End with a statement of truth
• Exchange simultaneously by set deadline
• Small claims may not require statements
• Fast track claims usually require formal statements

Expert Reports

• Provide expert opinion on technical matters
• Not allowed in small claims without permission (except personal injury cases)
• More common in fast track claims
• Experts have a duty to the court, not the party
• Can be expensive and time-consuming
• Expert must remain independent and impartial
• Consider carefully if truly needed

Key Tips for Witness Statements

1. Include only relevant information
2. Use proper layout with numbered paragraphs
3. Exchange simultaneously as directed by court
4. Prepare statements for all your witnesses
5. Ensure each statement ends with truth declaration
6. Don’t include new information at trial
7. Get statements signed and dated by witnesses

Key Tips for Expert Reports

1. Obtain court permission if needed
2. Choose experts carefully
3. Be aware expert may not support your case
4. Follow proper procedures for instructing experts
5. Disclose reports as required by court
6. Consider costs before obtaining expert evidence
7. Arrange expert attendance at trial if necessary