The Advocate’s Gateway have announced the launch of the Vulnerable Witnesses and Parties in The Family Courts Toolkit.
The toolkit states:
- In the family justice system there is no definition of a ‘vulnerable witness’ or a ‘vulnerable party’; however, a significant proportion of parties and witnesses are likely to be vulnerable such that they will need assistance to give their best evidence.
- Vulnerability should be identified at the earliest possible stage and information-sharing is key to achieving this.
- Courts must take reasonable steps to ensure the effective participation of vulnerable parties and witnesses. A ground rules hearing (GRH) must take place if a …read more
Source: Family Law News