London International Disputes Week: Under Cross-Examination: The Psychology of Witness Performance

Giving evidence is often treated as a technical legal exercise. In reality, it is a human performance challenge. In this interactive session, 2 KC's, a disputes lawyer and a performance psychologist explore how the psychology of a witness can fundamentally influence their ability to prepare for, and perform under, the pressures of trial. Drawing on behavioural science, real case experience and live demonstration, the session will examine how memory, stress, and focus impact credibility and consistency in the witness box. Attendees will gain practical insight into why even well-prepared witnesses can struggle under cross-examination, and how a more multidisciplinary approach, combining legal strategy with psychological understanding, can materially improve performance. The session will include a live demonstration of performance under pressure, alongside practical tools to help lawyers better support their witnesses in high-stakes environments.

Speakers:

• Guy MacInnes-Manby – Senior Associate, Freshfields
• Jason Galbraith-Marten KC – Barrister, Assurety
• Jane Russell KC – Barrister, Essex Court
• Andy Hobbs – Managing Director and Psychologist, Assurety

Discover the other sessions we will be hosting as part of London International Disputes Week.