3. Make notes on what you want to say about your case

It’s a good idea to make notes about what you want to tell the Board before your hearing day, and to practice speaking aloud if possible.

Because this is your application, the Board will usually expect you to speak and present your case first. At the beginning of the hearing, you can give a short summary of what your case is about. This is sometimes called an opening statement. Tell the Board very briefly what has happened and what you want the Board to do about it.

If you are going to have witnesses, you should make a list of questions that you want to ask them. Prepare your questions a few days before the hearing. 

Many people are not used to public speaking and it can be stressful to be at the Board. If you can, practice what you plan to say to the Board. You should also practice your questions for your witnesses. Ask a friend or family member to help you.

If you live near a Board regional office that has regular hearings, you might be able to watch some hearings before your own hearing day. This can give you an idea of what to expect at your hearing. You can also see how people present their cases to the Board. There are Board regional offices in Hamilton, London, Ottawa, Mississauga, and three locations in Toronto.