Hearing testimony during an unemployment case is very common. In fact, I cannot think of one hearing that did not involve talking to a Judge.
In my experience, many of my past Clients seek my help because they get anxiety just thinking about communicating with their employer or a judge.
Because most of the applicants I meet with share this fear, I wanted to create a short list of suggestions:
Hearing Testimony: Unemployment Help
If a person cannot talk for themselves or they become easily confused, ask yourself:
- Would practicing out-loud make the process easier to manage?
- Is it possible that a mental health issue impacted employment too?
- Would having evidence from a doctor make a case stronger?
- Are there trigger words or dates that can help remind us what to talk about?
- Is it reassuring that we can always ask for a break to step away to the restroom?
- Would another person help the case when giving hearing testimony?
Hearing Testimony: Who can Ask Questions
Another common stress or worry that I hear about is the fear of who will ask the questions? Generally, anybody on the phone or at the court appearance can ask questions. This includes:
- The unemployment law judge,
- An attorney,
- The employer and their witnesses.
Anxiety with this process is usually amplified because a person does not know what to expect. Knowing that others will have an opportunity to ask questions can sometimes give relief.
Also, I think it is wise to be prepared for making legal objections such that unfair questions can be put to a halt before they become damaging.
Hearing Testimony: Does Anxiety Really Matter?
You already know that stress, depression and anxiety is a real thing. For those that have sought help from their doctor, I commend you.
For those needing help from their doctor, having a diagnosis can really have a positive impact on an unemployment case. Especially those discharged for employment misconduct.
Hearing Testimony: Unemployment Benefits are Worth Fighting For
Again, I know stress and anxiety impacts some of my Clients. In fact, I think having anxiety over giving testimony to a judge or hearing a manager’s voice on the phone can make the situation even worse.
Sometimes, knowing why and how to approach a claim is the best strategy to overcome anxiety.
