Being a Witness at Court

 
  • If you have been the victim of a crime, or if you have witnessed one, you may eventually be required to give evidence in Court. This can be a very daunting experience.

 

  • If the crime is a very serious one the trial of the offender may take place in a Crown Court. For Islington the usual Crown Court is at Snaresbrook, though some Islington cases go to the Central Criminal Court (Old Bailey), or to Inner London Crown Court, or to Southwark Crown Court.

 

  • If the crime is less serious it will be heard at Highbury Magistrates Court at Highbury Corner.

 

  • Victim Support has a service at all criminal courts called the Witness Service, which is there to help you.
They can give you a pre-trial familiarisation visit to the court as well as offering you other services such as providing you with a separate waiting room so you need not see the defendant before going into court. They will also accompany you into the court room when you are called up to give case evidence.

 

Dealing with the Criminal Justice system can seem complicated and sometimes frightening. If you need any help at any stage of the process please phone us and we will do what we can to help.

Phone Islington Victim Support on 020-7272-0784

Or

The Witness Service, Highbury Corner Magistrate's Court on 020-7506-3207

 

For other courts please contact one of the following from the list below

Snaresbrook Crown Court - 020-8530-0083

Central Criminal Court - 020-7248-3277

Inner London Crown Court - 020-7234-3278

Southwark Crown Court - 020-7403-6200

 

If you think you might need support it’s best to phone us as soon as possible. Don’t leave it till the last minute.