Victim Services - Court Preparat

Victim Services - Court Preparation for Children

In March, 2005 the Minister of Justice announced the expansion of Victim Services to include services to children who will be testifying in criminal justice proceedings. The program was implemented in October, 2005 for child victims/witnesses. Human and financial resources were allocated to support this program with funding for the expansion provided through a Provincial Victim Fine Surcharge.

1. Who is eligible for services?
2. When should a child be referred?
3. Who can make a referral?
4. Is consent of the caregiver necessary?
5. What services will be provided?
6. Is there financial assistance available for travel for necessary preparation meetings?
7. Will services be provided to children testifying in Family Court?

1. Who is eligible for services?
Children, under the age of 16 years, who will be testifying, whether as victim of a crime or a witness to a crime, in criminal proceedings and their families.
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2. When should a child be referred?
Once it is determined a child will be required as a witness in a criminal matter the referral should be made at the earliest opportunity.
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3. Who can make a referral?
In the majority of cases referrals will be made by the police, the Crown Attorney or Child Protection. However, referrals are accepted from other agencies as well as self referrals as long as the child referred will be testifying in a criminal court matter.
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4. Is consent of the caregiver(s) necessary for a child to receive services?
Yes. The legal guardian(s) have to provide consent for the child to receive services.
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5. What services will be provided?
• Court preparation
• Information for families to help support/prepare children involved with the court process
• Case updates and general information on the court process
• Assessments and referrals for therapeutic counseling for child witnesses and their families if deemed necessary
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6. Is there financial assistance available for travel for necessary preparation meetings?
Yes. Funding for travel expenses (such as mileage, meals and accommodations) incurred for one visit to the courtroom/meeting with the Crown Attorney, in preparation for testifying for the witness and one caregiver is available.
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7. Will services be provided for child witness testifying in Family Court?
No – service provision is limited to children testifying in criminal proceedings only.
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