Criminal Evidence And Criminal Procedure Case Preparationyou

Preparing Witnesses for TrialName:Institutional affiliationPreparing Witnesses for TrialThe majority of witnesses of criminal cases fails to appear before the court due to fear, threats and stage fright. In cases related to sexual violence, the victim might be afraid to testify for fear of stigmatization if they testify in public. Some are too traumatized by the event, while others simply fear the entire court process. Witness counseling and support are very important in making sure that the witnesses are present for the trial (Mauet, 2005, p. 207). The defense attorney should also advise the court of the need to provide witness security in court. Possible witness protection mechanisms include withholding the name of the witness, testifying behind screens and electronically distorting the witness’s face and voice in the video feeds(Icty.org, 2015).Witnesses require experience before the actual cross examination. A well prepared witness is not only credible, but also has less stage fright during the trial process. The outcome of a trial heavily depends on the witnesses’ preparation. This makes the preparation of witnesses for cross examination a laborious yet essential task