Preparing to give evidence
- committal hearing
- pre-recording of evidence (for children and special witnesses)
- trial.
If you're a victim, your victim liaison officer (VLO) will keep you updated on court events and whether you need to give evidence. If you're a witness, the arresting police officer or our legal officer will let you know if you’re required.
Meet with the crown prosecutor
Your VLO will arrange a meeting with the crown prosecutor who will help prepare you to give evidence. During the trial you will be questioned based on the witness statement you gave to police. During this meeting, the crown prosecutor will provide you with a copy of your police statement, give an estimate of how long your evidence may take and answer any questions you may have about the process.
Read your police statement
If you can't remember what you told police, you can read your police statement before giving evidence to refresh your memory. You cannot bring or read your statement in court while giving evidence.
Raise safety concerns
If you have any safety concerns, speak with your VLO or the legal officer as soon as possible before giving evidence. There are steps that can be taken to help keep you safe at court.
You may also be eligible for special witness measures such as giving evidence from a separate room or behind a screen.
Request a support person
If you would like a support person with you while giving evidence, tell your VLO beforehand, so we can inform the court. Other witnesses cannot be your support person.
If you don't have a support person, you may be referred to a support agency, Protect All Children Today (PACT) which provides court support for children and adults.
Request an interpreter
If you need an interpreter, tell your VLO, and they will arrange it for you.