You may be asked to provide a witness statement if you:
- know something about a particular case being investigated by us
- have specialist knowledge that would be useful in deciding facts in a trial (professional or expert witness)
What will happen to my statement?
If a suspect is charged, your statement may form part of the prosecution. Your statement may be read to the court (without you present) or you could be asked to come to Court to answer questions about your evidence. We will contact you in advance if you need to go to court. This may be some time after you gave your statement.
If you are asked to go to court to give evidence, you must attend. You will be sent:
- a letter telling you when and where to go;
- a leaflet explaining what happens at court and what being a witness at court involves
- and a copy of your statement (and any exhibits).
Is there anything else I should do?
It is important to tell us:
- if you have left anything relevant out of your statement or if it is incorrect;
- if your contact details change (email, home address, phone number) - trials can collapse if witnesses cannot be contacted in time
- dates when you can't attend court - please update this information as soon as it changes
What if someone tries to intimidate me?
It is a criminal offence to scare a witness or anyone helping us in an investigation. If you are harassed or threatened in any way you should tell us or a police officer immediately.
leaflet. You can also contact the independent Witness Service, which is run by the charity Victim Support.
