1. After a criminal charge is laid involving a child victim or
witness, a referral is made to the Child Witness Program.
The program is available to children under the age of 18
who are involved in the criminal justice system as victims or witnesses.
The process begins when the client completes a consent form that gives
program staff permission to contact the new client.
The Child Witness Program also serves Waterloo Region, Wellington County and Brant County residents
who have to testify in another jurisdiction. Similarly, every effort
is made to ensure that children who live outside this jurisdiction
but who will testify locally receive court preparation where they
live. They are then offered support from program staff on the day
of court.
2. After receiving the referral, an introduction letter is mailed
to the client. A follow-up telephone call is made within the next
two to three weeks.
Program staff introduce the Child Witness Program, provide information
about the complex procedures of the criminal justice system, and assess
the general and specific needs of each client. This case management
approach may lead to referrals to other community services.
3. Program staff notify the Crown Attorney that the client has
consented to be involved with our program.
Program staff act as a liaison between the client and the courts.
4. Each client is called with court updates every time the accused
person attends court.
Program staff educate clients during the lengthy process between
the laying of criminal charges and the actual trial. It is important
for clients to understand that the criminal justice process may take
as long as a year, and its length is not unique to their case.
5. If the matter is set for a preliminary hearing or trial, programme
staff prepare the witness to testify.
The Child Witness Program provides a safe opportunity to learn about
court procedures and discuss any fears or concerns. Program staff
educate clients on the layout of court, roles of each person, rules,
legal terminology, and importance of taking an oath and telling the
truth. Sessions begin approximately four weeks before a court date.
The goal of these sessions is to empower children for their court
experience, allowing them to do their job in court. When a witness
is required to testify more than once, additional court preparation
would be required.
6. Prior to the court date, program staff arrange and attend
the client's meeting with the Crown Attorney. During this meeting,
the client has the opportunity to meet the Crown and discuss the case.
7. On the day of court, program staff attend court with the client.
Program staff attend court for many reasons: to provide expert testimony;
advocate on behalf of clients' needs when appropriate; lend emotional
support; interpret court proceedings; and ensure that clients are
not alone. Clients' support persons are often excluded from the courtroom
during their testimony.
8. After court, the outcome of the proceedings is explained to
the client.
Clients may need assistance in dealing with the verdict. Program
staff offer ongoing support throughout the entire judicial process.
9. Program staff assist with the preparation of a Victim Impact
Statement when required.
Clients have the option of preparing a Victim Impact Statement when
there is a conviction. This statement tells the judge how the crime
has affected the client's life.
