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Court procedures

One reason why people are nervous about giving evidence in court is they are not sure what to expect.  If you are asked to be a witness, please take advantage of the Witness Service, as they will explain everything to you beforehand.

When you first arrive in the courtroom, the List Caller will take you to the witness stand, where you will be asked to swear on an oath according to your religious belief.  Whether you are a witness for the prosecution or defence, you will be asked questions by both sides according to what was in your statement.  You can read your statement before going into court, however you can’t take it in with you.

Once questioning has finished, you will be told you can leave.  At this point you may sit in the public gallery and listen to the rest of the trial, or you may wish to wait in the Witness Suite.  If you don’t have time to wait, you can leave; the Witness Service will notify you of the outcome when the trial has finished.

When answering questions, remember to:

·   Speak slowly and clearly

·   Address your answers to the Bench

·   Try to keep calm

·   Answer truthfully

Please remember that witnesses in court are extremely valuable to the success of a trial.  If you are unclear on anything you are being asked, please say so.  No one will blame you if you are unsure on a question being asked.

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