The Scottish Government is committed to modernising the justice system so that the needs of victims and witnesses are properly met. The whole legal process, from the start of an investigation, then giving evidence in court, right through to after the outcome of the trial, can make an already traumatic experience even more upsetting and stressful.
Child witnesses and victims are especially vulnerable and the Scottish Government is working to make sure appropriate support is in place to help them better participate in the legal process and give their best evidence.
Standards of practice set to significantly improve how children are dealt with throughout all legal proceedings include:
- a Child Witness Support Pack (web only) which includes the following: