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