Hearing Preparation

Preparation of the file

Be familiar with the following:

• all of the application and affidavit
• any other affidavits filed in support, and
• the offender???s file.

Read all relevant parts of the hard copy file and the IOMS casenotes. Take the hard copy file and a print-out of the IOMS casenotes to the hearing.

Note: Tag the relevant pages of the file so that they can be easily accessed when giving evidence or responding to questions. Avoid having to search for relevant entries or documents during the hearing.

General preparation

As well as preparing the file, do the following:

• Prepare any witnesses or affidavits from witnesses.
• Disclose information as required to the offender or their counsel.
• Ascertain information about any changes in the offender???s circumstances since the application was made that may be relevant to the recall proceedings.
• Arrange for legal counsel to represent the Department of Corrections at the hearing if appropriate, e.g. high profile contested hearings.
• Be prepared to:
  • give evidence, and
  • attend and prosecute the recall.