Witness Statement

A witness statement is a written document setting out the evidence a witness will give at trial, verified by a statement of truth. Under CPR Part 32, witness statements stand as the witness's evidence in chief at trial. They must be in the witness's own words, set out facts within their personal knowledge, and identify the source of any information or belief.

In practice

Witness statements must comply with PD 32 formatting requirements: the witness's name and address, the number of the statement (if more than one), the date, and paragraph numbering. Making a false statement in a witness statement verified by a statement of truth is contempt of court. At trial, the opposing party has the right to cross-examine the witness on their statement.