What is a witness?
If you are a witness in a civil case, it may mean that you:
- Are a party to a civil case, this means that either:- -you have started the civil court case, or
- someone else has started the case against you, or
- you have some other formal interest in a civil case.
- Have seen or heard something in connection with a civil case.
- Have information about someone who is a party to a civil case.
Witnesses play an essential role by giving information to the court. This information is known as the witness's evidence. The courts need witnesses to give evidence so that they can build up a picture of what has happened and reach a decision.
There are different people who may call (or more formally 'cite') you to be a witness. These include the parties to the case or their lawyers. You may already have given a statement to a lawyer.
Witnesses may feel anxious about coming to court. This booklet will help answer some of the questions you may have and will help you understand what happens at court. It will also tell you who can help you and what support may be available to you as a witness.