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What does a witness do?

• A witness is someone who is asked to tell the court about something that happened.  The witness is not on trial and is not in trouble with the court.  He or she only has to tell the truth. 
  
• If you have been asked to act as a witness in court, it's a good idea to visit the courtroom ahead of time, to get a feel for what court is like.  You can arrange this through the police, or through the defendant's lawyer, if you are a witness for the defence.
  
• On the day of the trial, you can bring a parent, guardian or other adult into the court with you for support, as long as they aren't a witness at the trial.  Tell the usher when you arrive that you have someone you'd like to bring in with you.
  
• If you are a witness over the age of 14, you'll be asked to take an oath, promising to tell the truth.  You can read the oath, or have the usher read it so that you can repeat the words.
  
• If you are under 17 there are special measures available to help with giving evidence in court. This can include for example: speaking to the magistrate or judge through a live tv link, giving evidence behind a special screen and giving evidence in private. If you are nervous or worried about seeing the defendant, tell the police so that these arrangements can be made.
  
• The lawyers for the defence and the prosecution may ask you questions. Don't worry if you don't know the answer, or if they ask the same question more than once.  Just tell the truth and don't leave things out or add things in.
  
• It is okay if you don't understand something. Just tell the magistrates or the judge that you don't understand and ask them to explain again. If you don't know the answer, just say so. Never make up an answer.

If you are worried about being a witness in court, try telling an adult you trust or get in touch with someone from one of the listed websites or contacts.

 

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