Special Measures
It is recognised that giving evidence during a trial can be difficult for many people and particularly so for vulnerable or intimidated witnesses.
Vulnerable and intimidated witnesses deserve special care and attention from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which is why special measures are available to enable them to give their evidence in the best way possible.
Special measures can include one or more of the following:
- Using screens in the courtroom so the witness can not see, or be seen by, the defendant
- Giving evidence by live video link from a separate room in the court building
- Using video evidence in cross examination
- Clearing the public gallery of people
- Removing court attire, such as wigs and gowns
- Using an intermediary for questioning
- Communication aids.
Witnesses can request a meeting with the CPS to discuss their needs. The prosecutor can then make an application to the court for any special measures that are appropriate in the circumstances.
