Giving evidence in court: guidance for practitioners

Domestic abuse practitioners, particularly Idvas, may be asked or summoned to give evidence in criminal court. There are a number of issues to consider when deciding whether to give evidence. And practitioners based in locations such as hospitals and police stations who witness incidents or evidence of abuse will be required to make a report or statement to the police. 

It’s a complex area of practice which needs to be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Domestic abuse services should also have clear policies and procedures in place that equip practitioners with the knowledge to respond to requests. 

We’ve developed this guidance to help practitioners understand what they should consider when deciding whether to give evidence in court. It also provides information about how to assess and manage risk – both to clients and practitioners.