Court witness requirements etc

[All uphill]

And remember not to fart while giving evidence, at least audibly.

So that's what I was doing wrong all those years!

Why did no one tell me?

 

[Bonefish Blues]

And remember not to fart while giving evidence, at least audibly.

Nah. Small squeaky ones show you're taking things seriously and add to witness credibility.

 

[Vapin' Joe]

And remember not to fart while giving evidence, at least audibly.

It's the follow through in the middle of a tricky question that ruins your case.

 

[Homers Double]

And your pants.

 

[Bonefish Blues]

It's the follow through in the middle of a tricky question that ruins your case.

Probably best to leave your case with the court staff if you're that nervous.

 

[DaveReading]

There is plenty of time yet for them to plead guilty. Especially when they see you are willing to attend. They can do this even after you have arrived at court.

Exactly. A defendant can change their plea from not guilty to guilty at any point up to the start of the court hearing (or even beyond).

It's fairly common in the Crown Court for a defendant to maintain a not guilty plea in the hope that (as sometimes happens) a crucial prosecution witness doesn't show up. When you do arrive, be prepared for the possibility that a change of plea would mean that you don't need to give evidence after all.

And definitely get in touch with the Witness Service before the trial date. They will look after you while you wait to go into the courtroom, usually (depending on the court facilities) in a private waiting area to which the public doesn't have access. You can also ask them to arrange a pre-trial visit to the court if you think that will help.

 

[DRM]

And whatever you do, don't tell the Judge to keep the black silk square close at hand, you'll be needing it later on!

 

[Pedalabitslower]

I was called as a witness but didn't have to attend. The accused changed his plea to guilty before the trial. Luckily I contacted the court prior to the hearing and discovered I was not required. They had forgotten to notify me.