Statement Taking
Statement Taking is a crucial skill in private investigation work where investigators collect detailed accounts from witnesses, victims, or involved parties. It involves professionally interviewing people and documenting their version of events in a clear, accurate way. This is similar to what police officers do, but in a private capacity. The process includes asking the right questions, listening carefully, and writing everything down in a way that could potentially be used in legal proceedings.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted over 200 Statement Taking sessions for insurance fraud investigations
Trained junior investigators in proper Statement Taking and Witness Interview techniques
Specialized in Statement Taking and Recorded Statement collection for workplace incident investigations
Typical job title: "Statement Takers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Statement Takers
Professional Associations
Job Boards
Online Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle difficult or uncooperative witnesses during statement taking?
Expected Answer: A senior investigator should discuss building rapport, using different interviewing techniques, maintaining professionalism, and knowing when to reschedule or try alternative approaches. They should also mention documentation of any refusals or difficulties.
Q: What methods do you use to verify the accuracy of statements?
Expected Answer: Should explain cross-referencing information, seeking supporting evidence, identifying inconsistencies, and proper documentation techniques. Should also mention follow-up procedures and fact-checking methods.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key components of a properly taken statement?
Expected Answer: Should mention date, time, location, identity verification, signed consent forms, clear questions and answers, proper formatting, witness signature, and investigator's notes and observations.
Q: How do you ensure statements are admissible in legal proceedings?
Expected Answer: Should discuss proper documentation procedures, witness rights, consent forms, recording protocols if applicable, and maintaining chain of custody for all documents.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the basic process of taking a statement?
Expected Answer: Should describe introducing themselves, explaining the process to the witness, asking open-ended questions, taking accurate notes, and properly documenting the statement.
Q: What documentation do you need when taking a statement?
Expected Answer: Should list basic forms like consent forms, identification verification, statement forms, and explain the importance of getting signatures and contact information.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic interviewing techniques
- Documentation procedures
- Note-taking skills
- Understanding of consent requirements
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced interview techniques
- Statement analysis
- Legal requirements knowledge
- Digital recording methods
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex case management
- Training and supervision
- Expert witness testimony
- Quality control procedures
Red Flags to Watch For
- Poor writing and documentation skills
- Lack of attention to detail in paperwork
- No understanding of legal requirements for statements
- Poor interpersonal communication skills
Related Terms
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