What A Witness Statement Is
Someone who saw what happened may need to put their account in writing.
A witness statement turns what someone remembers into evidence the Industrial Court can consider.
What it means
It is a written account from someone with first-hand knowledge, such as a colleague who saw a meeting or a manager involved in the decision.
It is prepared before the hearing and usually stands in as that person’s evidence, so every detail need not be retold live.
Why it matters to you
A clear, specific and honest statement carries more weight than a vague or exaggerated one, because it must fit your other evidence.
Your own statement of what happened is usually one of the central pieces of evidence in the case.
How do you write a strong one
Stick to what the witness saw or heard directly, with dates where possible. Leave out opinions and anything they were only told secondhand.
It works alongside your statement of case and the evidence and documentation you gather to support your claim.
If you have not confirmed that your original filing was timely, check the deadline calculator.
If your Industrial Court claim will rely on witnesses, an independent employment lawyer can review who saw what happened. They can prepare the witness statements as part of acting on your case.
For people seeking legal representation. For general information, please use our guides and tools.
First contact: general facts only, such as date, location, employment status and a short summary. Keep documents private until an identified independent lawyer contacts you and specifically requests them.
Common questions
Can I be my own witness in my dismissal case?
Yes, your own account of what happened is usually a central witness statement in the case, alongside anyone else who directly witnessed relevant events.
What if a witness is reluctant to help, such as a former colleague?
This is a common, understandable concern, especially where the witness still works for the same employer. Approach them politely, explain exactly what you are asking for, and respect a refusal.
Keep reading
If your Industrial Court claim will rely on witnesses, an independent employment lawyer can review who saw what happened. They can prepare the witness statements as part of acting on your case.
For people seeking legal representation. For general information, please use our guides and tools.
First contact: general facts only, such as date, location, employment status and a short summary. Keep documents private until an identified independent lawyer contacts you and specifically requests them.