Witnesses

If you are asked to be a witness in a trial or hearing in court, you play a vital part in delivering justice.

By making a solemn promise to tell the truth and by giving your evidence in court, you make it possible for the magistrates (or the judge and jury if you are called to be a witness in the Crown Court) to understand what really happened.

Before the courts can find someone guilty or not guilty of a crime, they need to hear and consider the evidence - and witnesses are the people who provide the evidence.

Further information

Being a witness - what does it mean?

Help and information about giving evidence

Where will you give evidence?

Who's in the court room?

What happens before court?

Going to court (expenses, travel, and friends and relatives)