How to be an Effective Witness (aka: How Not to Make a Fool of Yourself on the Stand)

SESSION INFO

Tuesday, August 20, 2019
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Session Type: Workshop

It is not uncommon for probation and parole officers to be required to provide sworn testimony in the context of a revocation proceeding, either in a court or in an administrative hearing. This session is designed to provide background knowledge and common-sense skills about being a good witness that can be applied in such circumstances. In this interactive workshop, participants will have a valuable opportunity to learn judicial perspectives first hand and become better prepared to provide effective testimony. This is an area where preparation can really pay off!

SESSION PRESENTERS

Hon. Jamie Cummings
Judge, CCC #5, Tarrant County CSCD


Judge Jamie Cummings has been presiding judge of County Criminal Court 5 in Fort Worth, Texas since 1999. She is the local Domestic Violence Specialty Court judge. Prior to taking the bench, she served as an Assistant District Attorney. In addition to traditional court case management, she also oversees the Y.O.D.A.( Youthful Offender Diversion Alternative) program for young offenders charged with assaultive misdemeanor offenses.


Hon. George Gallagher
Judge, 396th DC, Tarrant County CSCD


Judge George Gallagher has been the presiding judge of the 396th Judicial District Court, also a felony trial court, in Fort Worth since 2000. He is also a former Assistant District Attorney and criminal defense attorney, and Board Certified in Criminal Law. Judge Gallagher also presides over the SAFPF( long term in-custody substance abuse program) Re-Entry Court program


Hon. David Scott Wisch
Judge, 372nd DC, Tarrant County CSCD


Judge Scott Wisch has been the presiding judge of the 372nd Judicial District Court, a felony trial court, in Fort Worth, Texas since 1995. He is a former Assistant District Attorney and criminal defense attorney, and is Board Certified in Criminal Law. Judge Wisch also presides over the felony First Offender Drug Diversion Program. JUDGE JAMIE CUMMINGS has been presiding judge of County Criminal Court 5 in Fort Worth, Texas since 1999. She is the local Domestic Violence Specialty Court judge. Prior to taking the bench, she served as an Assistant District Attorney. In addition to traditional court case management, she also oversees the Y.O.D.A.( Youthful Offender Diversion Alternative) program for young offenders charged with assaultive misdemeanor offenses.