Witness Service - help for witnesses
You may find it a bewildering experience if you are going to court as a victim or witness for the first time. You may not know what to expect or how to find out about court procedures, court layout or the role of various people working at the court. And you may find it difficult to give evidence, especially if it means talking about unpleasant events in public, including accusing another person of a serious crime. You may also not feel prepared for the process of cross-examination, which can sometimes feel very critical or even humiliating. Do contact the Witness Service if you are worried about any of this. They can provide support before, during or after the hearing.
The Witness Service are able to arrange for you to have a Pre-Trial Visit for you to gain an sight of how the court works, where the Judge sits, the jury are located and exactly where the defendant will be at all times. These pre-visits are normally held during the lunch time period at the court you will be attending. Arrangements can be made for you to visit a court nearer to your place of work or home address if this is more convenient for you.
You should also bring any information about the case, for example, the name of the police officer dealing with the case, if you know it, and the letter asking you to attend court, if you received one. And bring something to read or do as you may have to wait a long time for the case to be called. Bring some money as well to cover costs such as car parking and refreshments.
Victim Support runs the Witness Service in every criminal court in England and Wales to give information and support to witnesses, victims, their families and friends when they go to court.
We help:
- witnesses who are called to give evidence, including defence witnesses
- victims of crime and their families and friends attending court for any reason
- children as well as adults.
Witness Service staff and volunteers can give you:
- someone to talk to in confidence
- a chance to see the court beforehand and learn about court procedures
- a quiet place to wait
- someone to go with you into the court room when giving evidence
- practical help (for example with expense forms)
- easier access to people who can answer specific questions about the case (the Witness Service cannot discuss evidence or offer legal advice)
- a chance to talk over the case when it has ended and to get more help or information.
Like the rest of Victim Support, the Witness Service is free and independent of the police or courts.
You can contact your local Witness Service directly.