Law Society of Scotland welcomes children and vulnerable witnesses report

Ian Cruickshank, convener of the Law Society of Scotland’s Criminal Law Committee, said: “We welcome today’s report on the recommendations for improving how the justice system treats children and other vulnerable witnesses.

“Appearing in court as a witness can be daunting for anyone and it is important that our courts take account of the particular needs of children and vulnerable adult witnesses who are called to give evidence.

“The report’s recommendations will help ensure that the expectations of the court, in terms of producing best evidence and due process, are met while treating people with respect and making it a less difficult experience for those appearing.

“The report is ambitious in its scope and will require fundamental change in the way trials involving vulnerable witnesses are run in our courts. It will be essential to ensure that there will be adequate resourcing to ensure its overarching objectives can be met.”