Court Support

 

What is the Court Companion program?

For many people who have been the victim of a crime, the prospect of a court appearance can make them feel anxious and confused. The Court Companion program provides trained volunteers who can support victims and their families through this often daunting process.

 

 

Court Companions are trained volunteers who can:

 

• Provide information about courts and court processes
• Access safe waiting areas
• Sit with a witness before, during and after giving evidence
• Ensure court officials can locate a witness when needed in court
• Sit with family members during court
• Offer a listening ear in the difficult time immediately after attending court

 

When can a Court Companion help?

Court Companions can support victims of crime during:

 

• Proofings
• Court tours and preparation seminars
• Criminal hearings at Magistrates, District and Supreme courts
• Family Court hearings
• Youth Court hearings
• Family Conferences as a support person or victims representative
• Restraining Order hearings
• Tribunal/Board hearings where the matter involves a criminal offence

 

 

Who do I call for Court Companion support?

To arrange a Court Companion you can contact either:

 

• Your local Victim Support Service
• Investigating Police Officer
• Police Victim Contact Officer (VCO)
• Police Prosecutor
• Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP)
• Witness Assistance Service (ODPP)
• Coroner's Court Social Worker
  

 

 

 The Court Companion service is free and confidential and available in most courts throughout the state.