Victims of Crime and the Courts
Information
If you have been the victim of crime in Ireland, you may have contact with the courts system. You may be a witness at the trial of your case or you simply wish to attend and watch the trial.
For many victims, going to court can be a daunting and distressing experience. A number of support systems have been introduced to encourage and support victims in Ireland and to protect them from intimidation.
Rules
- Support services available to victims of crime includes a Court Support Service, which gives you the victim or witness to a crime support, encouragement and companionship of trained volunteers when you are attending court
- The court can provide the use of Video Link for young (under 17) child victims giving evidence in serious sexual or violent crime cases and for vulnerable or intimidated witnesses.
- The court can take into account the impact on you when sentencing an offender who has committed serious sexual and/or violent offences
- The court can allow you, if you wish, to give evidence about the effect of a serious sexual and/or violent offence on you.
- The Courts Service provides accommodation and facilities for you and your family in new and refurbished court buildings
How to apply
If you are not treated by the court offices with efficiency, courtesy and fairness, you may refer the matter to the Quality Customer Service Officer of the Courts Service. Your complaint will then be investigated on your behalf. More information is available in the Courts Service Victims Charter (pdf).
Where To Apply
Courts Service
Quality Customer Service Officer
Phoenix House
15/24 Phoenix Street North
Dublin 7
Ireland
Tel:+353 (0)1 8886000
Homepage: http://www.courts.ie/courts.ie/library3.nsf/pagecurrent/43D62F351869128880256F270061066E
Email: qcso@courts.ie
Language
Related Documents
- Victims of Crime and the Law
Legislation that has been implemented to protect and support victims of crime. - Victims of Crime and the Garda Siochana
The relationship between victims of crime and the Garda Siochana. - Witnesses under 18 years
Rules under which witnesses under 17 years may give evidence in the District Court, the Circuit Court or the Central Criminal Court in Ireland.
Contact Us
If you have a question relating to this topic you can contact the Citizens Information Phone Service on 0761 07 4000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm) or you can visit your local Citizens Information Centre.