Witnesses
Witnesses are a vital part of Queensland's justice system. Their evidence helps the magistrate or jury and judge determine the truth and make a fair decision.
The following information will help witnesses prepare for court.
Before court
Once they charge a person with an offence the police refer the case to a police prosecutor, or if it is a serious offence, to a prosecutor from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). The prosecutor’s role is to prove in court that the defendant is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Preparing for court
Before court, the prosecutor may wish to speak with you to discuss the case with the prosecutor to clarify particular details.You can talk to people close to you, but not to anyone who may be called as another witness. There is a risk that discussing the facts with another witness could influence their memory of what happened and the court may decide this evidence is not reliable.
Victim impact statements
A written victim impact statement is signed by the victim and explains how a violent crime has affected their life. This statement is not compulsory and if a victim decides not to make one, they can still tell the crown prosecutor about how the crime has affected them.
Concerns about bail for the defendant
Before a hearing or trial in court, the defendant may apply for bail. People who are granted bail are allowed to go free so long as they sign an agreement to turn up for further court hearings and abide by any conditions that the court has set.
Arriving at court
The process for arriving at court is similar in the Magistrates Court, Supreme Court and the District Court.
Giving evidence
Everything said in court is evidence and must be true and relevant to the case