Your Court Journey helps you understand the court process. it gives an overview of the steps you may take, the people you might meet, and the support available to you along the way. It’s designed to help you feel more prepared, more confident, and more supported as you take each step.
Every journey starts in the same way. One small step forward. It’s worth remembering that every journey is different, and sometimes it won’t happen as we think it may with some steps being skipped or missed.
Going to court or meeting the police can feel like standing on the banks of a wide river but the more you understand what happens next, the more it feels like there are stepping stones to help guide you safely across.
With each step in the court process you will meet someone new, but they’re there to help you. You will also have a PACT Support Person with you to make sure you feel comfortable.
Remember everyone’s Court Journey is different. You might do one step or you might do them all. Whatever shape your journey takes, this online guide will help you find all you need to know.
Download a copy of our ‘Your Court Journey’ Booklet
DOWNLOAD GUIDEWhen you meet with the police, remember you’re not in any trouble. They just want to hear your side of the story. Don’t forget, it’s really important that you tell the truth. Here are some handy tips to remember when you speak to them:
Remember, you’ve done nothing wrong.
The Court process can be a lot to take in if you haven’t experienced it before. That’s why a PACT Support Person gives their time to be with you in case you need someone to talk through your Court journey.
PACT Support Person is a volunteer and they will be with you at every step.
When you’re at the Police Station or Prosecutor’s Office, you will watch the story you recorded again.
This is an important step in the Court process as it will help both you and the Prosecutor remember what you said in your own words.
You’re allowed to bring headphones to listen to it privately, as it’s normal to feel nervous revisiting challenging emotions.
Your PACT Support Person will be with you. Talk to them if you’re feeling nervous.
When you chat with the Prosecutor for the first time, it’s an opportunity to ask them any questions you might have about the Court Process.
They will review the Court process, ask questions about your statement, help the Judge understand your first Police Statement (also called 93A) and discuss potential questions for your court day.
The Prosecutor is here to help you too, so don’t be afraid to ask questions or give them answers if they ask you.
When you go to Court, you will meet the Judge through a camera and TV screen. Like everyone else you meet on your journey, they are ready to listen to your story. It’s okay to feel nervous. You will also be speaking with the Prosecutor again and the Defence Barrister who works for the Defendant (the person accused of breaking the law).
The Court will also be closed, meaning only essential people can come in to watch or take part in the case.
The Defendant will be in the Courtroom, but not visible to you. Your PACT support person will bring you into the Court in a way that means you don’t have to worry about running into them or their family.
If you turn 17 before going to Court, you may have to attend the Courtroom in person. Talk to your Prosecutor and PACT Support Person about what you have to do.
When giving evidence there are a few important things to remember:
It’s really important to tell the truth in court, this will help the Judge make the right decision.
And just like that, step by step, you’ve made it to the other side of your river.
At the end of the Court Process, you might have more questions to ask or things you want to discuss. The Prosecutor and PACT Support Person are here to help you with anything. Whatever happens after court, you should feel proud of yourself. Telling your story can take a great deal of courage, and you’ve done something very important.
Got anything on your mind? You can chat with the Prosecutor or your PACT Support Person after Court.
There are services available to support you, your child, or your family every step of the way.
Use our search tool to find trusted support services near you.
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