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Home Specialist skills Legal Interviewing Skills
Interviewing Skills
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Understand the Principles of Investigative
Explain the PEACE model and its application to both witness and suspect interviews.
Understand the legal and ethical framework surrounding interviews, including relevant codes of practice (e.g. PACE Code C and E).
Plan and Prepare for Interviews
Develop structured interview plans based on available evidence and the purpose of the interview.
Assess risk, vulnerability, and the needs of interviewees before the interview.
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Build Rapport and Manage the Interview
EnvironmentUse effective communication techniques to build rapport and put interviewees at ease.
Create an environment that supports open, accurate recall and engagement. -
Use Questioning Techniques Effectively
Apply a range of questioning styles, including open, probing, and clarifying questions.
Avoid leading or inappropriate questions that could affect the reliability of the account. -
Record and Evaluate Interview Content
Ensure accurate recording of interviews in line with policy and legal requirements.
Assess the quality and reliability of the information obtained and identify any further lines of enquiry.
Reflect and Improve Interview Practice
Use feedback and self-reflection to identify strengths and areas for development in interview performance.
Understand how to learn from interviews to improve future investigative outcomes.
Overview
Off the shelf (OTS)
This two-day course provides delegates with the essential skills and techniques to carry out effective and ethical interviews, whether speaking with witnesses, victims, or suspects.
The course introduces the PEACE model of investigative interviewing, focusing on how to plan, structure, and conduct interviews that are legally sound, professional, and capable of standing up to scrutiny. Delegates will learn how to build rapport, use open questioning, manage difficult interviewees, and record accurate and reliable accounts.
Practical exercises and case-based scenarios give delegates the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in realistic settings. The course is suitable for staff in policing, regulatory bodies, local authorities, and other enforcement or safeguarding roles who conduct interviews as part of their investigations.
Delivery method
Virtual
Course duration
14 hours
Competency level
Working
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