The first to ask will be the prosecutor (your side). Should be simple, and they may discuss the questions they’ll ask with you before hand. Then it’ll be the defence to cross-examine. This is not adversarial. It’s quite respectful, and again will be a series of questions based your statement. - ThreadSky

andyshuttle.bsky.social • 12 days ago

The first to ask will be the prosecutor (your side). Should be simple, and they may discuss the questions they’ll ask with you before hand. Then it’ll be the defence to cross-examine. This is not adversarial. It’s quite respectful, and again will be a series of questions based your statement.

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andyshuttle.bsky.social•12 days ago

Beyond that, here’s the thing:

• If you’re a vulnerable witness, you’re entitled to support. You may wish to enquire, though I don’t know your circumstances.
• You can ask for clarification in a question. Do so, if you don’t understand.
• Answer the question presented to you.

andyshuttle.bsky.social•12 days ago

For example, if the defence asks “Do you have a favourite colour?” You should answer, “Yes”. Simply. They didn’t ask what you favourite colour was, so no need to give them that until they ask. Same for the prosecution. Answering the question like this can reduce nerves.

andyshuttle.bsky.social•12 days ago

Finally, though you’ve been called it does not mean that you could testify. A number of things could happen (a change of plea, defence not wanting to cross-examine you, prosecution changing their minds about putting you up as other evidence may be stronger).

andyshuttle.bsky.social•12 days ago

Disclaimer: I’m not a barrister or trained in the law, but have done some forensic stuff that I’ve needed to present in court. They have to be respectful. It won’t be adversarial. Hope this helps, and best of luck.

fionaskywalker.bsky.social•12 days ago

Thank you very much for this. Really appreciate it.

I'm nervous because I didn't actually see him do it. I was inside the building all 3 times.

He's just very well known round here because of the trouble he causes. Everyone knows.

andyshuttle.bsky.social•12 days ago

No bother! Sounds like you’ll be a contextual witness then, providing background on the defendant and his behaviour and how their actions made you feel. Chances are you won’t be on the stand for the entirety of the four days, you just need to be available then as they don’t know timeframes.

fionaskywalker.bsky.social•12 days ago

Urgh, I'm terribke at oversharing, especially when it's emotive subjects.

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