Note Taking and Report Writing Flashcards
How should sketches be completed in your notebook?
They should include the following :
Case identifier
Date, time and location
Distance between objects
Measurements showing location of evidence
Key, legend, compass orientation, scale
What is the definition of observation
An act or instance of noticing or perceiving
An act or instance of regarding attentively or watching
What are the 3 steps in observation?
Noticing- becoming aware of something with your five senses
Interpreting- organizing the information into something meaningful
Recalling- remembering the information and being able to access it
Memory strategy
What is the CAR strategy?
Concentration- focus on a single thing at a time , tuning other things out
Association- relating something new to something that is already fixed in your memory
Repetition- the more you repeat something the more likely you will remember it
What is the importance of observational skills?
Describe what you see smell or hear but do not assume what the cause is
It is necessary for your notes to hold up in a court of law. Your testimony is only as strong as your notebook
What is the purpose of a notebook? (3)
To aid in recalling details
A reflection of your work and ability
An investigative aid
What is the importance of a notebook?
They assist in recounting details that are difficult to remember
Can capture details that seem routine but become important later
Legally you need them to make statements
What are the legal considerations for your notebook when it comes to who can use them?
Both the prosecutor and defence can use your notes
Include all evidence that leans towards guilt and does not lean towards guilt (full , fair and frank disclosure)
What are the legal requirements of note-book?
All pages must be numbered with numbers on the bottom right hand side
A margin on the left hand side of the page
Use a bound notebook rather than loose leaf
Why are notes useful (5)
To preserve circumstances
Record statements of witnesses
Record investigative process
To draw conclusions and make recommendations
Refresh one’s memory
How long do you keep notebooks for?
Contains just personal information - 1 year
Contains information of investigation- 2 years
Government policy- 7 years
How to properly record notes.
Entries at the start of shift in left hand margin
Name title and unit
Date & time
Weather conditions
Description of observations and event
Descriptions of site
Sketches
Items seized
Identifications of witnesses
Comments and statements
W,W,W,W,W,H
What are the notebook guidelines
Legible
Concise
Accurate and complete
Relevant facts
Chronological order
Made in ink
Proper technique
All pages intact
No abbreviations
No blank lines
What are the 3 things officers should be able to do in taking notes?
- Freeze moments in time
- Provide accurate and complete notes
- Credibility on the stand
What are the three Rs when testifying
Review- your reports, notes, charges and evidence
Read-
Remember-
