Giving evidence

What happens when you give evidence?

When you are called to give evidence, a GMC staff member will take you to the hearing room and show you to the witness desk. The chairman of the panel will introduce him or herself and the rest of the panel to you. The panel secretary will ask you whether you wish to take a religious oath on a holy book of your choosing, or to make an affirmation as to the truth of your evidence.

When answering questions you should speak clearly and slowly into the microphone on the witness desk so that all parties can hear your evidence.

Examination and cross examination

You will be asked questions based on your witness statement by the GMC barrister. The doctor or his legal representative, and in addition the panel, may also ask you questions. You will not be able to have the witness statement with you when you give evidence, but you can read through it while you are in the witness room.  While you are giving your evidence, you may be shown other documents referred to by the barrister. Take your time to read the document carefully.

Adjournments

The hearing may have to adjourn from time to time either for lunch or at the end of each day if the hearing lasts for more than one day. The panel may also adjourn for a longer period in order to obtain additional evidence or in case of illness or because it has overrun the days allotted to it.

It is extremely important to note that witnesses must not talk to anyone about the case or about their evidence during any adjournment. This includes anyone who is involved with the case as well as any friends or family. If you do not adhere to this rule it could have serious repercussions for the outcome of the hearing.