what to expect at criminal court case ?

[orangeterry]

In the new year (on my birthday sctually) I'm due in court as a witness (the victim)

Since the perpetrator has been charged with the original crimes, her and her partner have been charged with witness intimidation as well .
Due to the nature of the crime I struggle with anxiety and I'm really scared about court to the point where I've asked police numerous times to drop the case , they've always talked me round though .

I'm just worried about what will be expected of me in court ?
Will I have to sit in a waiting room with the defendant ?
Will I be cross examined by her defence solicitor ?

I'm really scared that I'm going to fuck the case up for myself due to my anxiety

[OllyBJolly]

Get in touch with Witness Support. (Might be called Witness Help)

DSis was a witness in a case where a bastard had done terrible things to her leaving her with severe anxiety. She was allowed to give evidence by video link in another room. Her Witness Support worker met her at court, made sure she was kept quite separately from defendant and family, and kept her informed as to what was happening with court order etc.

[Gardencentregroupie]

Victims and defendants are kept completely separate whilst waiting.

I agree, ask the police officer in charge if they can/have applied for special measures (Tbh it sounds like it should have been done as you're clearly intimidated) - eg giving evidence behind screens or via video link. The police apply to the court. The nature of the offence and how it's affecting you will be taken into account.

You will be cross examined by the defence barrister. They're usually more gentle with victims than other witnesses. Just stay as calm as you can, tell the truth, if you don't know or don't understand tell them that.

Be braced for it to be delayed to a later date. It happens a lot unfortunately.

Have a decent breakfast and bring snacks. It can be a long day.

Good luck

[Gardencentregroupie]

Also, other than in exceptional circumstances, criminal court cases are open to the public, so you could always pop down to the court one day and sit in the public gallery to watch what goes on. Being familiar with the building etc might help (though you won't be allowed access to the witness rooms).