If an offender is charged to appear at court, they become a defendant. In such cases the Witness Care Unit - or the investigating officer or Family Liaison Officer - will be responsible for keeping you updated.
We recognise that going to court may be a daunting thought and our Witness Care Unit will guide and support you through every step of the court process.
The following websites have information that should help you understand what happens at court. Should you have further questions please speak with our Witness Care Unit or the officer dealing with your case.
Additional protection in court
The court may be able to take extra steps to protect you if you’re:
- under 18
- disabled
- afraid to give evidence
- a victim of a sexual offence
These could include:
- screens to stop you from having to see the defendant
- giving evidence via a live CCTV link
- asking the public to leave the courtroom when you give evidence, if the case is about a sexual offence
Please ask the Witness Care Unit or the officer in your case if you would like to request the above options.