The Witness Charter
Launch date: 28 November 2005
Closing date: 28 February 2006
The government launched a public consultation on the Witness Charter on 28 November 2005. This sets out the proposed standards of service for all prosecution and defence witnesses. It complements the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime, which gave statutory rights to victims for the first time. The Witness Charter is the next step in the government's programme of work to raise public confidence in the criminal justice system and support the needs of victims and witnesses.
The Witness Charter consultation sets out the proposed services witnesses can expect during the criminal justice process, including:
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information about the progress of the investigation or court case at key stages of the process
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tailored support based on individual needs assessment
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the opportunity to visit the court building ahead of the trial
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minimising unnecessary attendance and waiting times in court
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emotional and practical support at court before during and after the trial, particularly in the cases of vulnerable or intimidated witnesses
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action against intimidation at court and in the community
The consultation period will run until 28 February 2006. Responses should be sent to witness.standards@cjs.gsi.gov.uk or alternatively these can be sent to:
Stephen Cummins
Justice and Enforcement Unit
Office for Criminal Justice Reform
Ground Floor, Fry Building
2 Marsham Street
London SW1P 4DF
Tel: 020 7035 8705
Date: Mon Nov 28 09:42:00 GMT 2005
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