arghhh, this makes me feel LOADS better

Remember this bratty, courts are used to dealing with people who are in a much worse place to be appearing there (can you imagine what it's like for a rape victim to give evidence with the accused sat in front of them?). I suspect they will largely be sympathetic, especially as you were on the receiving end of a traumatic incident.

Well if it makes you feel better: with the court I was at, the defendant is sat behind a glass screen with a guard. You will come in, get cross examined and leave. Mumbling witnesses were asked to speak up as they are giving their evidence to the jury but also to take their time. They do try and put nervous people at ease as best they can. I'm not sure if they go through anything about the proceedings before you enter the court.

At least you are not sealing someone's fate as I did. Though it was a unanimous verdict.

It's important to make sure that the officials in court understand where your odd behaviour is coming from so that your testimony isn't dismissed. If you have a contact on the summons you've received, contact them straight away, explain your problem with courts and ask to arrange to give your testimony remotely, if that's not possible then ask the Clerk to ensure that the court officials are advised of your nervous behaviour so that they dismiss it when listening to your evidence.

Ignore everyone except the person who is asking you the questions.

but it will still kinda be awkward cos they sent out booklets to ask to make a victim video or something and to tell how its affected me when it hasn't affected me whatsoever, laughed it off the next day and went back to the pub a week after the incident




ye I can imagine the scenario

"how many times were you struck on the head?"

me: "LOL!"





tunnel vision

I've not read any one else's responses so sorry if I'm repeating other people's posts.

Basically - if you are summoned by the courts you HAVE to go.

If the defence/prosicution invite you/ask you to go, then it's your choice.

I got pressured into going to court quite heavily by the Police - they make it feel as though you HAVE to go, but just remember that unless the court summon you, it's entirely your choice.

Do consider why you don't want to go though.

Firstly try to remember that you aren't on trial. All you're doing is telling the story of what happened. It isn't your job to convict or defend anyone - just tell the truth and let the court do the rest.

Secondly, speak to someone at the court about how you might behave in court. On your summons there should be a number to call if you have a query.

Thirdly, make sure you eat properly on the day - have a hearty breakfast and lunch and take a spare sandwich. There's nothing like low blood sugar to screw with your nerves.

TBH, you'll be fine. It's nothing like the courtroom dramas on TV - you'll be bored more than anything else.

Based on the old “Familiarity breeds contempt” why don’t you try and visit the court you will have to go to the public gallery and just watch.

If you do that a couple of time you will get a feel for how things are done, the process etc. That way it will not be anything totally unexpected when you go

ended up not having to go atall all that paniking for nothing and it got mentioned in front page of newspaper and he was sentenced to one year in jail

Result

That's good news indeed.

If you think you will burst out laughing then see a doctor maybe they can prescribe something that will get you through the trial.

Do try and keep up dear boy :etc:

Well I must be going senile!

No - that would be me.....

Al