Preparing for court: a critical-care clinician’s perspective

Dr Joe Brierley, Consultant Paediatric Intensivist and Director of Paediatric Bioethics at Great Ormond Street Hospital, provides insights into preparing to give evidence in court. He discusses the role of witness statements, presenting factual information clearly and understanding the questions clinicians may face. The interview considers practical preparation, respectful communication and maintaining constructive relationships with families during difficult proceedings. Dr Brierley reflects on the particular challenges of cases involving life-sustaining treatment and the importance of explaining clinical care in language that the court can understand.

This interview took place at the PCCS Annual Scientific Meeting 2026 in London.