
When should you conduct a ground rules hearing? How should it be done? And what is the role of an intermediary?
Ground rules hearings are designed to ensure fair treatment of vulnerable witnesses, namely children and adults with cognitive impairments.
In this half-day, interactive session, you will learn how to conduct ground rules hearings – with and without intermediaries. You will hear from intermediaries about their role and experiences working in the courtroom. You will also have the invaluable experience of working alongside them in small groups as you learn to identify and re-draft improper questions.
Led by experienced judicial officers, you will explore:
- what are ground rules hearings as well as when and how to conduct them
- the ground rules process – both with and without an intermediary, including how to set ground rules for questioning vulnerable witnesses
- when and how to intervene when ground rules are not followed, or the question is improper under s.41 of the Evidence Act 2008.
Speakers.











