Getting to the court
Taking time to plan your journey in advance can help you avoid added worry on the day and make sure you arrive at the court building on time. You can claim travel expenses for attending court as a witness.
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Court entrance
Each court will have a main entrance. This is the way most people enter the court. If you’re scared or worried about coming through the main entrance and seeing people involved in the trial, it may be possible to arrange access to the court through a separate entrance. The Witness Service or the Witness Care Unit officer can arrange this for witnesses in advance of attending court.
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Accessibility
Each court is different and some are more accessible than others. If you have any accessibility requirements, or you may need any assistance or adjustments, you can speak to a Witness Service supporter about your access needs.
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What to bring with you
You may want to consider bringing some things with you, as you will likely have to wait before giving your evidence. For example:
- A book, magazine, toy, game, phone or tablet.
- Snacks, drinks or money to buy these from the cafe or vending machine – if available.
- Medicine from the doctor, if you need it.
- A scarf, jumper or jacket in case you get cold.
You can bring drinks with you. If any drinks are open, or are in a flask, bottle or cup, the security officer will ask you to take a sip to prove the contents are not harmful. This is called a ‘sip test’.
There are some items you are not allowed to bring into court buildings. For example, you cannot bring in any knives or weapons, sharp items or anything that could be used to hurt anyone else, or any liquids that are not drinks or prescription medicine (including perfume).
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