The Statement on the Treatment of Victims and Witnesses (2009)

The Statement on the Treatment of Victims and Witnesses pdf file format was revised and released on 1 September 2009. It will become operational on 7 September 2009.

Speaking at a media briefingpdf file format on 1 September 2009, Mr I Grenville Cross, SC, Director of Public Prosecutions, said:-

This Statement is a practical document designed to provide the best possible deal for victims and witnesses involved in the criminal process. It indicates how as prosecutors we consider that victims and witnesses should be treated, and the means by which prosecutors will safeguard their interests. The Statement is a road map for prosecutors. It provides guidance to prosecutors to ensure that victims and witnesses are placed at the heart of our calculations throughout the course of criminal proceedings.

Topics include:

FOREWORD

1. THE VISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

  • Prosecutors committed to a fair deal

2. STATEMENT OF POLICY

  • The role of the Department of Justice
  • The decision to prosecute
  • Information about victims and witnesses
  • Compensation and Restitution
  • Safety of victims and witnesses
  • Victims and witnesses at court

3. STANDARDS OF SERVICE

  • Witness protection
  • Before trial
  • At trial
  • At sentencing
  • Defence mitigation
  • Witness expenses
  • Appeals to the High Court
  • Reviews of sentence to the Court of Appeal
  • Cases involving fatalities and serious harm
  • After cases are over

4. CONCLUSION

  • Transparency and assistance creating confidence

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Sep 1, 2009