How to write a witness statement

A good witness statement tells what happened, in the witness's own words, in date order, in short numbered paragraphs. It deals only with facts the witness knows (saying where any other information came from), refers to documents by their page in the bundle, and in civil courts ends with a statement of truth under Civil Procedure Rules Part 32.

Updated 24 October 2026. General information only, not advice on your situation.

Structure

A heading with the case name and number, and who is making the statement
A short introduction: who you are and how you know about the events
The events in date order, one topic per paragraph, numbered
References to documents by their bundle page, for example [B/45]
The statement of truth, signature and date

Style

Write in the first person and in your own words. Keep to facts you saw, heard or did. Where something is not from your own knowledge, say where it came from. Avoid argument, legal commentary and repetition: the judge reads the statement as your evidence, so clarity matters more than length.

The statement of truth

In civil proceedings the statement must be verified by a statement of truth in the wording set out in Practice Direction 32. Making a false statement without an honest belief in its truth can lead to proceedings for contempt of court.

Employment tribunals set their own directions for witness statements, including when they are exchanged. Follow the tribunal's orders in your case.

Common mistakes

Leaving out dates, or telling events out of order
Arguing the case instead of stating facts
Referring to documents that are not in the bundle
Missing the exchange deadline set by the court or tribunal

How Courtwise can help

Courtwise Legal Guidance is an independent paralegal practice working by secure video across England and Wales. A free 15-minute introductory call is available to first-time clients. Witness statement and hearing preparation support →

Questions

Can someone else write my witness statement?

Someone can help you organise and draft it, but it must be your evidence in your own words, and you must check and sign it yourself.

How long should a witness statement be?

As long as it needs to be to cover the relevant facts, and no longer. Short numbered paragraphs in date order are easiest for a judge to follow.

Official sources

Related guides

This guide is general information about the law and procedure in England and Wales. It is not legal advice and does not create a client relationship. Courtwise is not a firm of solicitors and is not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.