Content Hub/Witness Statements FAQ/How do I write a witness statement for an employment tribunal?

Monday, July 14, 2025

How do I write a witness statement for an employment tribunal?

A well‑writtenwitness statement for employment tribunalhelps the judge understand your side of the story. .

Step 1 – Structure It Clearly

Number each paragraph and type it on A4 paper
Use headings for each key issue (e.g. "Unfair dismissal") to match the list of issues, so the tribunal can see what you are addressing and where​

Step 2 – Add Introductory Details

Begin with: your name, address, job title, employer name, and employment dates, to add some context to the statement. perhaps give some background of your employment.

Step 3 – Write a Chronological of Events

Create a clear timeline. List events in date order, using phrases like “on or around 12 September 2023” if dates are approximate 

Step 4 – Refer to Evidence in the Bundle

When you mention documents (emails, payslips, grievance letters), cite their titles and page numbers, e.g. if you are referring to an email that is on page 24 fo the bundle you can say “[see page 24 of the bundle]" rather than setting out the text of the email in your witness statement.

Step 5 – Use Plain Language and First‑Hand Facts

Write as if explaining to a family member who knows nothing about your job: simple words, short sentences, no jargon. if there is a particular phrase that is used in the business, then explain the phrase. 

Step 6 – Don't. be embarrassed

Do not be embarrassed if the language used contains expletives. Your statement whould be thr truth, that includes embarrassing matters as well.

Disclaimer: Please note, none of the answers on this page or connected pages are legal advice, and whilst reasonable steps are taken to ensure its accuracy at the time of publication, the law changes regularly

🧭 Navigating your Claim

⏳ Chronology of a Claim

Click the button below to view the resources relevant to the stage your claim is at, and what is ahead of you!

🤝 Informal Resolution

Try to settle the dispute without starting a claim.

📝 Presenting a Claim

Not able to resolve your issue? Then set out your complaint by completing the ET1 and respond with an ET3

🗂️ Case Management

Once the claim has started get the roadmap for your case at a Case Management Hearing ("CMH").

⚖️ Preliminary Applications and Hearings

The CMH may identify specific issues to resolve before a Final Hearing, like strike-out or employment status.

📂 Disclosure

You will be ordered to exchange all relevant documents with the other side.

🗣️ Witness Statements

You will need to write a detailed account of your evidence before the Final Hearing and possibly any Preliminary Hearing, and send it to the other side.

🏛️ Final Hearings

This is when your case is decided by the tribunal.

💷 Remedies

If you win, this stage decides compensation or reinstatement

🔁 Appeals

You may be able to challenge the outcome — but only on limited grounds.

🎥 Other Resources

📚 Free Guide 📘

Click here for my free tribunal guide.

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