Testifying in Court: What Corrections Officers Need to Know

Outline:
Section 1: Introduction

About This Course

Learning Objectives

Section 2: Preparing for Court

Situations When Correctional Officers May Have to Testify

Strategies for Preparing for Court

Understand Your Role in the Legal Process

Knowledge Check

Know Your Rights

Communicate with Your Attorney

Review Pertinent Information

Review

Summary

Section 3: Courtroom Etiquette

First Impressions

Recommendations for Displaying Appropriate Courtroom Etiquette

Strategies for Providing Effective Testimony

Stages of the Questioning Process

Actively Listen to What is Being Asked

Practice Effective Verbal Communication

Be Cognizant of Non-Verbal Communication Cues

Review

Summary

Section 4: Conclusion

Summary

Course Contributors

Resources

References

Congratulations!

Joe Martin is a career employee for the Kentucky Department of Corrections. Joe started his career as an officer in 1998. Joe was promoted to Sergeant in 2002 and to Lieutenant in 2005. Joe worked and supervised most security positions within a male and female facility while in security that include: Internal Affairs supervisor, Special Management Unit Supervisor, Shift Supervisor, Visitation Supervisor, Adjustment Committee, and Grievance Chairman. In 2012 Joe was again promoted to the Accreditation Manager. In 2013 Joe was promoted to Central Office and started in the PREA Executive department. In 2014 Joe gained his DOJ PREA auditor certification where he served as chair for many PREA Audits in Missouri and Kansas while the KY DOC was part of a consortium with several other states. During his career, he has also served as the Hostage Negotiation Team Leader and active member of the team. Joe’s accomplishments include Commissioner’s and Achievement awards for the department.

Mrs. Cobb is a Lead SME Writer/Trainer at Relias. Her primary writing responsibilities are in the content areas of public safety and behavioral health. Mrs. Cobb is also the onboarding trainer for new staff joining the Relias Content Department. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Correctional and Juvenile Justice Studies and a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice. She has over 25 years of experience working in criminal and juvenile justice. Her work includes direct service, research, publication development, and training and technical assistance development and delivery.