Witness and Evidence Solicitors

In any legal dispute, particularly debt recovery claims, the strength of your case hinges on the quality of your evidence and the clarity of your witness statements. At Franklins Solicitors, we guide businesses through the preparation, disclosure, and use of evidence, ensuring that every stage complies with court rules and strengthens your position in litigation.

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Witness and Evidence

Why Witness Evidence Matters

Courts rely heavily on written and oral evidence to assess the facts of a dispute. Having detailed and accurate witness statements, supported by documentary evidence, is often the difference between winning and losing a case.

At Franklins, we help clients:

  • Identify and prepare credible witnesses
  • Draft witness statements in accordance with Civil Procedure Rules
  • Collate, review and disclose relevant documentation
  • Respond effectively to evidence presented by the opposing party

Witness Statements: Best Practice

A witness statement is a written account of a person’s direct knowledge of events relevant to the dispute. It forms a key part of trial preparation and is often used in place of live oral testimony. The statement must:

  • Be written in the witness’s own words
  • Address all relevant facts in a clear, chronological manner
  • Include a formal statement of truth
  • Comply with formatting and procedural rules set out in Part 32 of the Civil Procedure Rules

Our legal team can help draft or review your statements to ensure they meet these criteria, reducing the risk of rejection or challenge in court.

Disclosure of Evidence

Before a case proceeds to trial, both parties are required to exchange information about the documents they intend to rely on. This is called disclosure, and it includes:

  • Contracts
  • Invoices
  • Letters, emails or messages
  • Receipts or bank records
  • Any other documents that help prove your claim or disprove the other side’s defence

Legal privilege applies to private correspondence between you and your solicitor, these documents do not need to be disclosed.

We will work with you to create a complete and compliant disclosure list, ensuring all documents are relevant, admissible, and submitted on time.

Court Requirements and Deadlines

Courts operate to strict timetables when it comes to evidence. Missing a deadline for witness statements or disclosure can seriously jeopardise your claim. Our team ensures all necessary documents are filed, shared, and prepared for trial in line with the court’s directions.

We can also assist with expert evidence where required, such as forensic accounting reports or technical assessments relevant to the claim.

Why Choose Franklins Solicitors?

  • Decades of litigation experience across commercial and debt claims
  • Full guidance on evidence compliance, strategy and preparation
  • Drafting and review of witness statements and trial bundles
  • Timely, efficient handling of disclosure obligations
  • Representation through all court stages, from pre-action to final hearing

Contact Our Litigation Team

If you are preparing for a court hearing or need help strengthening your claim through evidence and witness preparation, we are here to help.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Witness and Evidence

Can a witness be used as evidence?

Yes, a witness statement may be used as evidence in court if it is relevant to the case.

What are the exceptions to witnesses giving evidence in court?

During a court process, a witness will be asked to provide evidence of their claim.

Do witness statements count as evidence?

Yes, witness statements can be used as evidence in court.

Is a statement enough evidence?

A witness statement can be used as evidence in court, and if the evidence is compelling and cannot be disproven, it may be enough to help settle a claim.

Contact the Witness and Evidence team

If you have any questions about witness and evidence, please don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts who are on hand and ready to help you.