Engineering: DVD support for trials

An informative DVD for witnesses is expected to prevent thousands of criminal cases from falling apart.

The film is to show how trials work so all witnesses – both defence and prosecution – understand what is required of them when giving evidence.
 
It is hoped that the DVD will stop many witnesses failing to attend court due to fear, concern and confusion over the judicial process.
 
The 30-minute film, called Going to Court: Witnesses, takes victims and witnesses on a step-by-step journey through the procedures of the court and what will be expected of them from making a statement to after the trial.
 
Participants will be motivated to increase their knowledge about their rights and responsibilities in a bid to improve their confidence.
 
The release of the DVD will soon appear at the Crown, magistrates’ and youth courts in Nottingham and will be produced in English and Hindi.
 
Constitutional Affairs Minister Harriet Harman said: “Helping victims and witnesses to better understand what's going to happen to them in court through television should boost their confidence enough so that they turn up at court when they're supposed to.
 
“This latest move is in line with the Government's pledge to put witnesses at the heart of justice, encouraging more people to come forward to provide evidence often crucial to the outcome of a case.”
 
Witnesses for the defence will be able to get a copy through their solicitor or at any Nottingham court involved and prosecution witnesses will receive the DVD through Witness Care Units and the Witness Service.
 
Paul Fawcett, Head of Communications at Victim Support, said: “We know from supporting thousands of witnesses every year through our Witness Service just how anxious many people are at the prospect of going to court.
 
“In many cases, simple and straightforward information is enough to reassure people and make their experience so much more bearable. This DVD is a very welcome addition to the help on offer.”

You’ve read it. Now review it.

Back to top

Back to top