Support someone during the court process

Experiencing crime, especially when it involves someone known to the victim, can affect feelings of safety, control and trust. There is no one ‘normal’ reaction to experiencing crime; some people may feel a loss of power or uncertainty, while others may be angry and some people may not show much reaction at all. These are all valid. 

If you want to support someone who is involved in a court case, it’s important to understand what kind of support is best for them. You could do this by asking and listening to what feels helpful and safe for them, offering options, and respecting their decisions when deciding what they want or need.

Going to court can be difficult and stressful for the person who has experienced the crime and also the people supporting them. There are organisations in Aotearoa that can offer help and support in ways to best suit your situation.

More information about organisations that offer help and support

Support from loved ones can help. Your support can help during the court process and also play a role in the victim’s recovery.

You can support your friend, family or whānau member in different ways:

• sitting near them when they give evidence in court, if the judge says you can, you are not allowed to speak but can offer silent support
• sitting with your family or whānau member in the Youth Court, the judge will decide how many people is enough
• going to a coroner’s inquest.

If you go to court to support a loved one, you can’t help them to answer any questions. You can only speak during the proceedings if the person in charge talks to you directly.

Even if you can't speak, your presence in the courtroom can help someone feel they are not alone.

Supporting someone affected by crime