Witnesses

Witnesses in Scotland

If you have been called to appear at court as a witness in either a civil or criminal court case you may find the website Witnesses in Scotland helpful. 

Witnesses for the prosecution

The Crown Office and Prosecutor Fiscal Service provide information for prosecution witnesses, in some instances through the Victim Information and Advice unit.

Victim Support Scotland

Offers support to victims and witnesses of crime. Find your nearest victim and witness support service  or contact:

Scottish Helpline

0845 603 9213
Mon - Fri 08:00 - 20:00
Victim Support Scotland.  

Vulnerable Witnesses 

Witnesses who are deemed 'vulnerable' in accordance with the Vulnerable Witnesses (Scotland) Act 2004, such as children under 16 or vulnerable adults, may be entitled to special measures when they give evidence in court.

If you think that you may be a vulnerable witness, you should discuss this with the person citing you in a case. This will usually be a lawyer or the Procurator Fiscal who is prosecuting the case. They will discuss your circumstances with you and whether it is appropriate to make an application to the court for you to use special measures. If the person who is citing you as a witness considers that you may be regarded as a vulnerable witness, they will usually discuss this with you, or arrange for a suitable person to discuss this with you.

Giving Evidence by TV links

Certain witnesses, on application, may be able give their evidence from another part of the court building or from a completely different location. If you are considering citing a witness for whom a live TV link would be appropriate you should consider this protocol and contact the Scottish Court Service Electronic Services Delivery Unit at the earliest opportunity.