The evidence of eye witnesses in court is particularly important, especially in criminal cases. Aberdeen and Robert Gordon Universities are looking for volunteers to assist in a project investigating the reliability of information collected from witnesses in the courtroom.
Funded by the Clark Foundation for Legal Education, the research is the first of its kind to be conducted in the UK. The study involves legal and psychology academics.
The experiment is underway, with a number of volunteers having taken part. Some preliminary conclusions have been reached and are very interesting. As many volunteers as possible are needed in order to complete the study, and to make the results of this law reform project reliable and influential.
Volunteers would assist in two sessions of approximately 45 minutes. The first is an introductory briefing to be held at AU/RGU, where the research will be explained and participants will be asked to complete a series of questionnaires.
The second session will consist of a hands-on experience at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on Union Street concluding with participants answering questions about the process.
Those who attend both sessions will be entered into a draw with prizes including £150 of store vouchers. Participants will also be able to obtain a copy of the research findings.
Travel expenses will also be reimbursed. For further information on the project contact Derek Auchie, Senior Teaching Fellow, University of Aberdeen, School of Law, on d.auchie@abdn.ac.uk or 01224 272425.