crown court witness??

[bubbly2000]

after my ex partner hit a bloke for slapping me, the case is now being heard in crown court (sct 18 wounding being the charge) at the time i gave a statement to the police stating what happened, although the cctc didnt capture the bloke slapping me it did capture my ex attacking the bloke. whats the likelihood of me having to go to court. Will i have to stand up in court and say what happened and will i be cross examined.

[sara3]

if a defendant pleads guilty, witnesses do not have to give evidence.

if he pleads not guilty, the prosecution or the defence can call you to give evidence, which includes being cross-examined.

[bubbly2000]

hes pleadin not guilty to sct 18 on the advise of barrister as it was not pre-meditated it was a spur of the moment thing and no weapon was used

[sara3]

but that asides, you will probably be called to give evidence.

there will be a witness support officer in court should you need more advice or support.

[bubbly2000]

the judge has allowed 4 days for the trial...will they let me know what day i have to attend in advance as i will need to let work know. what happens about my pay for the day i have to go to court, will my employer still have to pay me or will i have to take it as holiday

[sara3]

I don't know, sorry. if your employer doesn't/can't pay you, you can apply to the court for expenses (probably including loss of earnings).

I'd strongly suggest you call the court on Monday (or asap) and speak to the Witness Support Officer.

[bubbly2000]

thanks sara and Abdul.

[sara3]

and good luck.

and if you have to give evidence stick to the absolute truth. say you don't know if you don't know. if you trip up, you'll be torn to shreds.