Victims InformationSafety at court
Courts can be unfamiliar and intimidating environments. The police, prosecutor and Court Victim Advisor will try to make sure you are protected from unnecessary contact with the defendant or their family and friends at court.
Separate waiting areas
In most courts, everyone enters the court by the same entrance. It is possible that you may see the defendant or their family and friends somewhere in the court. Most courts have separate waiting areas for people who have been called as witnesses.
Support if you have been called as a witness
If you are needed as a witness, the police officer in charge or court victim advisor will tell you when and where you need to be at court. They will also talk to you about what you need to do as a witness. You can ask to visit the courtroom ahead of time.
Talk to your court victim advisor or officer in charge if you want:
- to visit the courtroom ahead of time so that you are familiar with it
- someone to meet you at or outside the court
- a support person to sit with you when you give evidence
- a screen or closed circuit tv, so you don’t have to look at the defendant when giving evidence (this is only for some cases).
Your safety is important. If at any time you are concerned about your safety at court, talk to a police officer or court security officer.
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