Understanding CPS Special Measures:
Understanding CPS Special Measures: What You Need to Know
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) plays a crucial role in the justice system of England and Wales. One of its key functions is to ensure that victims and witnesses can give their best evidence in court. This is where CPS Special Measures come into play.
What Are CPS Special Measures?
Special Measures are provisions that help vulnerable or intimidated witnesses give evidence in court. These measures aim to reduce the stress and anxiety of the court process, ensuring that witnesses can provide clear and accurate testimony.
- Victims of sexual offenses.
- Victims of human trafficking.
- Witnesses with mental or physical disabilities.
- Witnesses who are intimidated due to the nature of the case.
Types of Special Measures
There are several types of Special Measures that the CPS can provide, including:
- Screens: These prevent the witness from seeing the defendant while giving evidence.
- Live Link: The witness can give evidence from a location outside the courtroom, via a video link.
- Video-Recorded Evidence: The witness's evidence is recorded on video before the trial and played back in court.
- Intermediaries: These are trained professionals who help communicate questions and answers between the witness and the court.
- Aids to Communication: This includes the use of communication aids, such as sign language interpreters or other tools, to help witnesses with communication difficulties.
Why Are Special Measures Important?
Special Measures are essential for maintaining the integrity of the justice system. They ensure that vulnerable witnesses can participate fully in the court process, providing crucial evidence without undue stress or fear. This not only helps the witnesses but also contributes to fairer and more accurate trials. Ensuring witnesses
can give their best evidence in court. By understanding and utilising these measures, the justice system can better serve both victims and the community, upholding fairness and accuracy in legal proceedings.
Special Measures | The Crown Prosecution Service (cps.gov.uk)