I work with victims/survivors of SV and DV - AMA

[Andromeida59]

I work with victims/survivors of SV and DV. Feel free to ask me anything regarding legal process etc.

Please note I will not give specifics of cases etc for safeguarding/confidentiality reasons.

I have my first meeting with an advocate next week to talk me through the process. What shall I do to prepare? Also at some point will I need to hire a lawyer?

And a massive thank you for doing the job you do.

Also, do people ever get convicted when the evidence is only verbal from the victim?

Hi @Wings. Firstly, I want to wish you all the best for next week. In regard to your advocate (whilst I am not an IDVA/ISVA), I would say just be prepared for how you are going to feel when discussing what has happened to you. Prepare by writing things down, take it with you everywhere if you can and make notes as they come to you (some phones have memo apps). Also know that your advocate is there to support you. They believe you and you will be supported. In regard to hiring a lawyer, if you're going to trial because you are a Prosecution witness, a CPS Prosecutor will be hired on your behalf. This will not cost you anything. When the times comes to go to trial, know that you can go and have a look around the court beforehand so you can familiarise yourself with court proceedings etc. This is invaluable so please do it.
In regard to asking about verbal evidence, I can't say how the case will go but a trial is only brought if the CPS feel they have enough evidence to bring a trial.
You're bound to feel a range of emotions but you're advocate and others are there to support you. I think you're incredibly brave but know you're not on your own .

I am back. Thanks for the really useful info. I've now had my meeting with my advocate and it was a very helpful.

i am going to ask her they same thing but wanted to ask you as well. If I can afford one can I choose to pay for a prosecutor? Or is that not how it works in England? Or can I hire a lawyer as an advisory? Sorry if that doenst make much sense. I am just wondering who, in the whole process, is responsible for making sure the best possible case is put forward? So far I'm not clear on that. I am just trying to understand as much as possible.

Also, what is you actual line of work and how did you get into it.