Victims and Witnesses

Question 1

Intimidated Victim

Answer 1

if the service provider feels that the evidence they will give will be affected because of fear or distress about testifying in court

Question 2

Intimidated Witness

Answer 2

when an attempt has been made to threaten or persuade a witness not to give evidence to the police or courts of give evidence in a way that is favourable to the defendant

Question 3

Someone is automatically classed as intimidated when

Answer 3

they are a victim of a sexual offence or of human trafficking, or if they’re witness to a gun or knife offence

Question 4

Vulnerable witness and victim

Answer 4

all child witnesses/victims (under 18) and any witness/victim whose quality of evidence is likely to be diminished because they suffer from a mental disorder or have a significant impairment

Question 5

How many days should be informed of any updates?

Answer 5

priority victim - within one day
standard victim - within five days

Question 6

what should victims be informed of?

Answer 6

suspect being arrested
suspect being interviewed
suspect being released without charge
suspect being released on Police Bail or if any bail conditions are changed of cancelled

Question 7

what are special measures

Answer 7

a range of measures to help facilitate the gathering and giving of evidence by vulnerable or intimidated witnesses or victims

Question 8

types of measures:

Answer 8

screens
evidence via link
evidence in private
removal of wigs and gowns
video evidence in chief
video recorded cross examination
intermediary
aids to communication