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Home » About Court » Preparing for Trial

Child and Youth Witnesses

Testifying in court is stressful no matter what age you are. Children, especially, may be worried or confused.

If you are part of a the support network of a child who is testifying in court (a parent, a grandparent, a friend), you can help by answering questions, encouraging communication, reassuring the child that he or she is supported, and maintaining as normal a routine as possible.

Going to Court as a Witness

For general information about what happens when you go to court as a witness, click here.

Did You Know?
Under recent changes to the Criminal Code, children and young people under the age of eighteen have greater support when they testify in court. This means that a number of testimonial accommodations are now available to help kids testify. For more information, click here.

Important Reading

  • If you are the parent or guardian of a child who is going to court to testify, the booklet Let’s Go to Court may be of assistance.
  • You may also find the following website - a site for youth preparing for court - helpful, Courtprep.ca.

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