Advocating The Courtroom Process

Whenever you're involved in the courtroom process in support of a victim, here are some things you should familiarize yourself with and keep in mind while at the courthouse:

Don't put yourself under time pressure; it may be hours before your case is called. Allow yourself plenty of time so you aren't worrying yourself or the victim. If you don't know what courtroom your case is in, there is usually an information desk as you enter the courthouse, or in the clerk's office.

During the courtroom process, comply with any dress codes (eg., no shorts, or tank tops) or you may not be allowed in the courtroom.

Most courthouses have metal detectors, so allow yourself extra time; leave pocket knives, or scissors in your car.

Don't act out in the courtroom no matter how outraged you are. During the courtroom process the judge can hold you in contempt of court, or have you removed from the courtroom. Watch body language, facial expressions, etc.

The more support people the victim has with them the better. Not only in terms of moral support for them, but also as a deterrent to the perpetrator and his friends, or family. Especially in situations where the judge will be making a ruling (i.e., sentencing, bail hearing, etc.) it can also be significant to the judge to see that the victim is not isolated.

Never Talk To Jurors during a trial. Never discuss a case within hearing distance of the jurors -- not in the hallway; not in the cafeteria -- nowhere. If a juror tries to start a conversation, politely say, "I'm sorry, I can't talk with you," and move away. Otherwise you may be faced with a defense attorney calling for a mistrial, claiming you influenced the jury.

Find out if the perpetrator is in custody, or not. If the perpetrator is in custody, report to the bailiff any signs of their attempting to intimidate, or communicate with the victim.

If the perpetrator is not in custody:

Ask the victim to point out the perpetrator and their family, or friends who may be in court. Pay attention to who these people are and where they are in relation to you and the victim at all times.

Always be aware of where the perpetrator is. Position yourself physically between the victim and the perpetrator whenever possible.

During the courtroom process alert the bailiff and prosecutor immediately of any threatening, or intimidating behavior.

Ask the bailiff, or D.A. investigator to accompany the victim to their car after court if needed.

Be aware of who was in the courtroom and who's around you when you walk to your car.

If the victim will be testifying:

Try to insulate the victim from unnecessary distraction. The victim needs to be able to concentrate their thoughts and energy.

The victim will not be able to be in the courtroom until called to testify. Wait with them in the hallway, or in the D.A.'s office.

When the victim is testifying, their support people should not sit directly behind the defendant. The victim shouldn’t have to look at the defendant when they want to look at their supporters.

Whenever a witness is testifying, don't nod, or shake your head, or anything else that could be construed as coaching the witness.

All the information regarding advocating the courtroom process have been created and provided by Tanya Brannan of www.purpleberets.org.

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