My Day in Court - Centre for Children and Families in the Justice

Transcription

My Day in Court
Research Team
Pamela Hurley
Dawn Lashbrook
Alison Cunningham
Lynda Stevens
Child Witness Project
Centre for Children and Families in the Justice System
Acknowledgements
We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Ministry of the Attorney General, Ontario
Victim Services Secretariat, for funding this project. We also thank Margaret MacPherson,
Regional Grants Coordinator, OVSS, for her support throughout the duration of the project.
We continue to appreciate the Ministry’s financial support and encouragement of the Child
Witness Project since 1991.
The project would not have been feasible without the collaboration and support of the
provincial advisory group who provided valuable insights, reviewed the forms through each
stage of the development process and distributed the questionnaires. We also acknowledge
their willingness to take time from their busy schedules to attend the project co-ordination
meetings.
Kelly Alcock, Dryden VWAP
Sylvie Bisson, L’Orignal VWAP
Erin McCahery, Toronto-North York VWAP
Barb McIntyre, Child Victim Witness Support Program, Toronto
Lynda Stevens, Child Witness Project, London
Rachel Theoret and Rachelle Laurin, Ottawa VWAP
Karen Whaley, St. Catharines VWAP
Finally, and most importantly, we are grateful to the many young children, youth and their
parents/guardians who completed the questionnaires during each phase of the project.
This project was funded by the Ministry of the Attorney General, Ontario Victim Services
Secretariat. The opinions expressed herein are those of the research team and do not
necessarily reflect those of the Ministry of the Attorney General or the Government of
Ontario.
Research Team
Pamela Hurley
Dawn Lashbrook
Alison Cunningham
Lynda Stevens
Centre for Children and Families in the Justice System
254 Pall Mall Street
London ON N6A 5P6 Canada
www.lfcc.on.ca
© Centre for Children and Families in the Justice System
Page i
Overview
The Child Witness Project, of the Centre for Children and Families in the Justice System
received funding from the Ministry of the Attorney General, Ontario Victim Services
Secretariat to develop developmentally sensitive feedback forms for children and youth called
to testify about their own victimization or about events they witnessed. The information gained
directly from young victims and witnesses will serve to improve court preparation and support
services for children.
The primary purpose of the project was to develop feedback forms to help determine whether
child victims and witnesses are receiving developmentally appropriate, child-centered court
preparation and support during their involvement in the justice system. Children’s access to
testimonial aids and other special accommodations was also assessed. Two separate forms
were designed to capture the feedback, level of satisfaction and experiences of child and
teenaged court witnesses. The developmentally sensitive questions and form design provided
young people with an opportunity to tell us about their perceptions of the justice system and
identify any factors that either helped them or proved difficult for them. Participants were
informed that the information they provided was non-identifying and no questions regarding
the charges that were before the court were asked. The forms were suitable for both children
who testified as well as those who did not. A questionnaire was also developed for the
parents/guardians of child witnesses. All respondents were asked for their opinions and
recommendations as to how the experience of being called to testify could be made easier for
other children.
Information gained directly from child victims and witnesses contributes to our deeper
understanding and sensitivity towards the challenges they face as court witnesses. These
insights lead to greater awareness of children’s needs that include: early referral and
identification of all cases involving children, specialized child-centered court preparation
services and use of testimonial aids. As reflected in articles 12 and 13 of the UN Convention
on the rights of the child, ‘there is an obligation not only to hear a child witness but to free
the child from any constraints or fear, anxiety or stress which inhibit his evidence’.
Provincial scope
A small provincial advisory committee, composed of individuals representing the Child
Witness Project (CWP), Centre for Children and Families in the Justice System, (London);
Child Victim Witness Support Program, Toronto Child Abuse Centre; and Victim/Witness
Assistance Programs in Dryden, North York, L’Orignal, Ottawa, and St. Catherines. These
seven centres brought representation from the two official languages, aboriginal communities
and cultural diversity, as well as rural, remote, mid-sized and large urban areas.
The committee undertook to review the questionnaires during each stage of their
development. They also agreed to distribute the forms to child witnesses and
parents/guardians associated with the respective programs. The feedback forms would then
be sent to the Child Witness Project for data input and analysis.
© 2006 Centre for Children and Families in the Justice System
Page 1
Study Methodology
Three questionnaires for younger children, teens and their parents/guardians were developed
during the pilot phase and two formal phases of the project. The questionnaires underwent
several drafts, reviews and revisions before the final forms were developed. The project’s
advisory committee provided input during these phases. Information gathered from children
and parents/guardians during each phase, significantly contributed to and informed the final
feedback instrument.
Principles and Guidelines for Research with Vulnerable Individuals and Families
(Cunningham, 2003) informed this research project.
Development of the instrument
Pilot Phase (One month)
Prior to the first phase, three pilot questionnaires were drafted for children, adolescents and
parents. Seven children were asked to complete the draft forms – two young children and five
teens, all recently involved in the justice system either as witnesses or victims. Based on their
comments, input by their parents, as well as observations by CWP child witness specialists,
some of the questions were revised to better reflect clarity of language and developmental
sensitivity. A parent questionnaire was created but not tested in the pilot phase.
Phase One (Two months)
Once the format of the three Phase One questionnaires was completed, the forms were
translated into French. The French forms were sent to the Francophone site for review. Each
of the six questionnaires was then printed on different coloured paper, in booklet form.
The participating sites were sent a supply of both the English and the French versions of the
child, teen and parent questionnaires. Included with the forms was a supply of pre-stamped
envelopes addressed to the Child Witness Project, as well as a supply of plain envelopes to
be used for mailing questionnaires to clients if necessary. A number of small cellophane
packages containing crayons were also included.
Instructions were provided to the sites regarding the administration and distribution of the
questionnaires. Members from the various sites were asked to administer the majority of the
questionnaires in an interview format in an effort to capture as much feedback from the child
and/or parent as possible. The packages of crayons were to be distributed with the child
questionnaires and children were to be invited to draw a picture in the space provided. If
questionnaires were to be given to clients to fill out at a later date, a stamped, return
addressed envelope was to be given to the client as well.
An Access database was created for the purpose of gathering and sorting the information
gleaned from the completed questionnaires. Three separate tables and corresponding data
entry forms were created in order to enter the information from the returned child, teen and
Page 2
parent questionnaires. Any information from French language questionnaires received was to
be translated and entered into the English language table for ease of analysis.
The first phase of the project lasted approximately two months. During this phase, a total of
42 questionnaires were returned.
Phase Two (four months)
Based on a review of Phase One returned forms, feedback from the committee members and
the young child, teen and parent participants, the Phase One questionnaires were revised to
better access the target information. This was done by re-wording and re-phrasing questions
to ensure comprehension, expanding response options, deleting some questions and adding
additional questions.
On the child questionnaires, 12 questions remained the same, although the wording
changed slightly on two of the questions and additional options were available on a third
question. Seven questions from the phase one child questionnaire were dropped and six new
questions were added.
On the teen questionnaires, 14 questions remained the same, with slightly different wording
on three of the questions and additional options available on a fourth question. Ten questions
from the phase one teen questionnaire were dropped and nine new questions were added.
Fourteen of the questions remained the same on the parent questionnaire, with slightly
different wording or format on five of the questions and additional options were available on
a sixth question. Twelve questions were eliminated entirely from the parent questionnaire and
16 new questions were added.
The revised questionnaires were then translated into French. The French forms were sent to
the Francophone site for review. Each of the six questionnaires was printed on a different
colour of paper in booklet form and a supply was distributed to each of the participating
sites.
The database was revised to include new tables and data entry forms for the Phase Two
questionnaires while leaving the tables for Phase One intact.
Consent forms were developed for the CWP intake process, wherein children, teens and
parents were asked if they would agree to be contacted at a time following the completion of
their case. The consent does not oblige the individual to participate in any follow-up
endeavour; they agree to be contacted.
To provide another avenue for feedback, the surveys for parents and teens were made
available on the Internet. The same questions were used and both French and English
versions were created. The form, when completed by the respondent, was submitted to the
Centre via e-mail. No identifying information was requested and the form was designed to
maintain the anonymity of the respondent. As such, encryption was not needed. The URL for
the form was listed in the covering letter sent with the paper copies of the survey.
Page 3
The second phase of the project lasted approximately four months. During the second phase,
a total of 41 questionnaires (6 child, 14 teen, 21 parent) were completed and returned. (The
majority of responses came from the CWP London site.)
Phase Three
During the last phase of the project, the 3 forms were again reviewed, revised and refined.
Once the revision of the final forms was complete, they were translated into French.
Administration and completion of the questionnaires
Testifying in court can be a difficult or even traumatic experience for child witnesses.
Describing what happened in an open courtroom, trying to remember and recount upsetting
events or giving evidence against a family member or a person who is feared can be
overwhelming. Coping with the verdict, whether it is a finding of guilt or an acquittal, is a
difficult process. Some children want to forget their court experience and put it behind them.
Others welcome the opportunity to express their opinions, both positive and negative, of the
system and services they received. Many are also glad to provide suggestions and
recommendations in order to improve the system for other children.
Distribution of Questionnaires
Several methods of distribution were undertaken in an effort to help determine the best
response.
Personal Contact
Provided questionnaires to children and parents at debriefing session after court.
Provided questionnaires to children and parents on the day of court.
Note: Questionnaires could be completed on site or mailed at a later date.
Telephone interview and completion of questionnaire.
Guidelines for Questionnaire Administration
Personal contact with younger children and teens appears to elicit the best response
rate.
The feedback forms can also serve as a debriefing tool.
Some children and/or parents wish to answer some, but not all of the questions. They
can be reassured that any feedback is valued.
Page 4
Indirect Contact
Random Mail Sample (20% response)
Twenty children and parents were selected for a random mail sample. The participants
were selected from Child Witness Project clients whose cases had been completed in
the previous four months. Of the twenty questionnaires mailed, four (20%) were
returned through the mail using the pre-addressed stamped envelope that had been
included with the questionnaire.
Select mail sample (20%)
Five questionnaires were mailed out in the select mail sample to clients who agreed
over the telephone to complete the survey. Only one questionnaire (20%) was returned
by mail, in a pre-addressed stamped envelope. Although this group was also offered
the link to the on-line questionnaire, none were completed on line.
Internet
Four of the questionnaires (parent and teen in both languages) were available on the
website and the link was provided to the participating sites. The link was also available
to those participants in the select mail sample. No questionnaires were completed in
this manner.
Next step: Cards have been developed that can be given to clients at any time during
the court preparation process. This format can be adopted by any other site.
Centre for Children and Families
in the Justice System
We would like to hear feedback about your court
experience. Your information will help us improve
services for children, teenagers and their families.
A questionnaire is available on line at:
http://www.lfcc.on.ca/my_day_in_court.html
Page 5
Summary of Child Questionnaire Responses (Age 11 and under)
Respondents
19 Children completed the forms or had a parent help them complete the forms
8 were male children; 11 were female
The children were referred by 3 different centres (74% CWP London; 21% TorontoNorth York VWAP; 5% L’Orignal VWAP)
Learning About Court
18 of the 19 children reported that someone helped them learn about court. 1 child
didn’t answer this question.
15 children reported using books to learn about
court; Only 1 child reported using the web and 2
children reported using videos to learn about
court.
Very
worried
26%
Not
worried
32%
All 19 children said they met with the Crown prior
to going to court.
6 children reported being not worried about
court; 8 reported being a little worried and 5
reported being a lot worried.
A little
worried
42%
Testimonial Aids
Of the 13 children who testified, all children reported having a support person with
them; 6 also used CCTV (all were from London where there is a dedicated closed circuit
courtroom) and 6 used a screen.
Page 6
Sample Responses from Child Questionnaires
What was the easiest thing about going to court?
Telling the judge the truth
Knowing that I was telling the truth
What was the hardest thing about going to court?
Trying not to be bored all bored because of the waiting.
Talking to the accused’s lawyer
Having the accused look at me
Worrying about how it will all happen
Making mistakes in front of lawyers
What should we know to help other kids who have to go to court?
Tell them they should always tell the truth and they don’t need to
be scared because the judge is nice and you are behind 2 locked
doors.
Tell them that they only have to be scared if they tell a lie. As
long as they tell the truth, it will be okay.
Have more toys in the waiting room
Be nice to them.
Don’t make them scared
What is your biggest memory about going to court?
The nice people that I met.
The look on the accused’s face. He stared at me when I was
talking - always had a scowl on his face.
I was scared
CCTV
Not to lie
Knowing that (accused) could see me
Page 7
Summary of Adolescent Questionnaire Responses (Age 12 and over)
Respondents
♦ 31 questionnaires were completed
(91% CWP London; 6% TCAC
Toronto; 3% L’Orignal)
20
20
18
16
♦ 26 forms were completed by females
(20 victims; 6 witnesses)
14
12
Female
10
♦ 5 forms were completed by males
(2 victims; 3 witnesses)
Male
8
6
6
♦ 16 adolescents reported that their
statement to the police was video
recorded, 12 reported that it was not;
3 did not know.
4
3
2
2
0
Victim
Witness
Relationship of Accused to Witness
36%
35%
13%
3% 3%
10%
Intrafamilial
Acquaintance
Ex-boyfriend
Stranger
Professional
No Answer/Unknown
Page 8
Learning About Court
♦ Phase one questionnaires (n=17) simply asked the respondents to check off the applicable
boxes regarding how they learned about court.
11
12
10
7
8
6
4
4
1
2
1
0
Vi
de
o
O
th
er
Bo
ok
Br
s
oc
hu
re
s
W
eb
sit
e
Co
ur
tP
re
p
M
ee
tin
gs
0
♦ Phase two questionnaires (n=14) listed a number of methods of learning about court and
asked the respondents to rate whether or not this method helped, didn’t help, or to note if
they didn’t use that particular method. Court preparation meetings and courtroom
orientation were cited as being the most helpful methods.
♦ 97% of the respondents reported visiting the Courthouse before their court date.
♦ 71% of the respondents reported meeting with the Crown prior to their court date.
♦ When asked “What could we have done better to help you?” of the 10 that did respond, 8
reported that there was nothing we could have done to better help. 1 reported wanting to
know ‘how things worked’ and another wanted reassurance that the accused could not
find them in the courthouse.
♦ 57% of the respondents said that using language that kids understand would have helped;
50% said that finishing the case faster would have helped them.
Page 9
Fears of Court
♦ When asked if they were worried
about going to court, 6%
respondents said they were not
worried, 52% said they were a little
worried and 42% said they were very
worried.
♦ When asked what worried them the
most, the respondents’ answers most
frequently reflected a fear of the
accused and a fear of speaking in
an open courtroom.
Not Worried
6%
Very worried
42%
A lit tle
Worried
52%
Testimonial Aids
♦ Of the respondents that testified, 43% reported using CCTV (all but one of those was
London where there is a dedicated closed circuit suite), 13% reported using a screen and
57% reported having a support person with them when they testified.
Page 10
Sample Responses from Adolescent Questionnaire
What should we know to help other kids?
How nervous we get
Just tell them to tell the truth - they are never wrong if they tell the truth.
What was the easiest thing about court?
CCTV
Telling the truth
I knew what the procedure was, no real surprises. I wasn’t shocked, well
prepared.
Knowing that people were there for me and knowing the truth would be out.
What was the hardest thing about court?
Trying to remember every detail.
Going there and talking about it.
Knowing I would have to see the accused there.
Knowing I would have to talk against my family.
Waiting to go up on the witness stand.
Crying! In front of everyone on a big screen.
Everything.
Thinking that (accused) would try to come after me in the courthouse.
Page 11
Summary of Parent Questionnaire Responses
Respondents
32 questionnaires were completed
(78% London; 10% Dryden; 6% St.
Catharines and 3% from each of
Ottawa and L’Orignal)
30
25
25
20
Their children ranged in age from 6 –
18, with an average age of 12.49
26 forms completed referred to female
children (25 victims; 1 witness)
6 forms completed referred to male
children (4 victims; 2 witnesses)
Female
15
Male
10
4
5
1
2
0
Victim
Witness
Case Types
The case involved:
(Note: parents could check more than one box)
(N=32)
25
23
20
15
10
7
5
6
2
0
Sexual Assault
Physical Violence Adult Domestic
Violence
Other
Page 12
Preparing for Court
Parents reported going to the courthouse an average of 3.1 times.
28% of the responding parents reported having more than 1 child that was expected to
testify.
19% of the parents reported not receiving enough information about court dates.
Greatest worries
53% of the parents reported
that their child’s greatest
worry was seeing the accused.
Another 16% reported that
their child’s greatest worry
was retaliation by the
accused.
worry was the open court
room.
Retalliation by
Accused
16%
Open court Not being
room
believed
6%
6%
Other
19%
Seeing the
Accused
53%
worry was not being believed
84% of the parents reported that their children received enough help (dealing with
worries) and 9% reported that their children did not receive enough help. The balance
either didn’t know or did not answer the question.
Testimonial Aids
65% of the parents reported that their child testified in court. Of the parents that
reported that their child testified, 62% said their child used CCTV (All but 2 of these
were from London where there is a dedicated closed circuit courtroom). Only 5% used
a screen.
Page 13
Sample Responses from Parent Questionnaires
Recommendations
Thanks for all the assistance in preparing and supporting my daughter for court. This
service was an essential part of the overall experience.
This experience as a parent has been very hard. As a parent, (witness) you can’t discuss
the incident with your children, you just follow the process. You are not aware exactly
of what happened, providing support without really being able to fully understand is
hard. Especially when it takes a year and a half.
No recommendations, the services provided to my son were excellent. His well being had
been protected by victim/witness, child witness services and the Crown.
When it is a sexual abuse case and the child is scared to see the one who did the abuse, I
think the courtroom aids should be more readily available and not have to apply for it.
It would help on reducing the trauma to the victim and make it easier to testify without
intimidation from the abuser watching.
If things went a little quicker, the children would have had a clearer memory.
Comments about the Parent’s Experience
Very pleased that we were well informed
Felt more comfortable with process after meeting with victim/witness services Knew my
children also felt better.
It was very hard on me as a parent being unable to be in the courtroom with her as I was
not allowed because I am a potential witness.
This was the hardest thing to do.
Suggestions to improve the system for children
Have a separate entrance for the child witness to avoid seeing the accused in line.
Make the closed circuit TV more easily available especially in abuse cases.
When they go on the stand, should be in back room instead of facing accused.
Appointment with Crown would have been helpful - procedure explained.
Page 14
Have court dates sooner so kids can move forward with their life and not have to rehash
everything years later.
Stop rescheduling everything!
What really helped
Support from the police, police services and the Crown Attorney was very good. The
process was way too long.
The amount of personal attention and involvement that victim services took in our
case.
Comments about CCTV
Absolutely helpful. She had been very worried about facing the accused in court.
Very, very helpful. She was less nervous or scared.
It helped make my child not as nervous
It allowed her not to see the accused.
Page 15
Implications
This project reconfirmed knowledge gained over two decades of research and experience
working with child witnesses – that being called to testify is a stressful experience for the
majority of children. Facing the accused, giving evidence in an open courtroom, crossexamination, delays, adjournments and waiting for court are significant stressors for children.
In addition to the primary trauma of victimization, secondary traumatization can occur during
the time a child is involved in the criminal process. Much of this secondary victimization can
be prevented or alleviated by early identification of the child’s concerns, needs and abilities,
provision of child-centered support and court preparation, timely information to the child
and/or parent about court dates, and use of testimonial aids. Respect, kind words and
simple gestures are greatly appreciated by children. We can continue to improve and refine
services by obtaining feedback and consulting the ‘experts’, children and their families who
have been called to testify in the justice system.
Recommendations for Child Victim/Witness Support Programs and Services
Provide the opportunity for all child witnesses and their parents/guardians to give feedback
about their experiences in the justice system. Not all children or parents may wish to
complete questionnaires.
Feedback from children and parents leads to increased understanding of the special issues
and challenges related to calling children to testify, thus urging improved child-centered,
differential services and supports.
Testimonial aids are special protections and can be available to all children under age 18 –
the child witnesses will benefit from being informed and consulted about special
accommodations. This information can be conveyed, at an early stage in the process, to the
Crown.
Next Steps and Future Endeavours
My Day in Court questionnaires, three English forms and three French forms, are ready to be
used by all programs offering court preparation services to child witnesses and their families
throughout the province of Ontario.
The Child Witness Project (CWP) has incorporated the feedback forms into its court
preparation protocol. Parents and children are advised, at the point of intake, that they can
be asked to complete the questionnaires. Teens and parents are also informed that they can
complete the forms on internet. We recommend that younger children complete the form with
an adult. These steps can easily be undertaken by other programs.
Page 16
Monitoring services and the use of testimonial aids - on-going collection of completed forms,
data entry and analysis:
The CWP has the capacity, experience and expertise to develop a database that would
accommodate information and data from completed questionnaires (non-identifying)
sent by court preparation programs for children (VWAP and community based
programs) throughout the province. The collective feedback can serve to improve
direct assistance to children and identify services that need refinement. Justice System
professionals can continue to benefit from current and creative recommendations
provided by the child ‘experts’.
Develop a comprehensive resource package/manual for child victim/witness court
preparation services.
Based on our two decades of research and practice in the specialized area of child
witnesses and most recently informed by the valuable data gathered in My Day in
Court project, the manual will encourage standardized practice - one based on best
evidence and most promising practices. The goal of this project is to share a best
practice standard in court preparation - one that is adaptable to local contingencies
such as geographical remoteness, to ensure each child has access to a service
informed by the best information available.
Page 17
Appendix A - Map Showing Participating Sites
CWP My Day in Court Pilot Sites
Ottawa VWAP
Capital City, large
urban centre
L’Orignal VWAP
Eastern Ontario rural
area, Francophone
services
Child Victim-Witness Support
Program - Toronto Child
Abuse Centre
Large metropolitan centre,
cultural diversity, specialized
court prep for children
Dryden VWAP
Rural, remote
and aboriginal
communities
North York VWAP
Large metropolitan
centre, cultural diversity
London Child Witness Project Centre for Children and
Families in the Justice System
Medium-sized urban centre,
specialized court prep for
children
St. Catharines/Welland VWAP
Medium-sized centre with a
satellite office in the Welland
Courthouse
Page 18
Appendix B - Final Questionnaires
My Day in Court
Page 19
Agency Use Only:
Date: ______________________
Location: ___________________
Age ____
Girl
You are an expert now on court. Tell us what it was like for you so
we can help other children.
1. What is your biggest memory about going to court?
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
© 2006 Centre for Children & Families in the Justice System (London Family Court Clinic, Inc.)
and under
Age 11Age
and11
Under
30 October
06 and Families in the Justice System
© 2006Rev:
Centre
for Children
Boy
LEARNING ABOUT COURT
People who need to talk in court learn a lot of new things.
2. Did someone help you learn about court?
Yes
No
Who: __________________
3. What did you learn?
____________________________________________
4. How did you learn about court?
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
read a special book
used a Website
watched a DVD or video
talked to the Crown Attorney
met with a special court support person for kids
watched television shows about court
visited the courthouse
Were there other ways you learned about court?
____________________________________________
5. What is the best way for kids like you to learn about court?
____________________________________________
6. Were you worried about going to court?
Not worried
A little worried
Very worried
7. What were you worried about?
____________________________________________
8. Did someone help you with your worries?
Yes
No
Who: __________________
GOING TO COURT
9. Did you talk to a judge about what happened?
Yes
No
I don’t remember
☺ If you did not have to talk to a Judge, go to question #15.
10. Did somebody sit or stand with you while you talked to the
judge?
Yes
No
I don’t remember
11. Did you use closed circuit TV to talk to the
judge?
Yes
No
I’m not sure
What would you tell other kids about closed circuit TV?
_____________________________________________
12. Was there a screen in front of you so you didn’t have to see
the accused?
Yes
No
I liked the screen
I didn’t like the screen
What would you tell other kids about the screen?
_____________________________________________
13. What was the good part about talking to the judge?
____________________________________________
14. Was there any bad part about talking to the judge?
____________________________________________
15. Was there any good thing about going to court?
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
16. Was there any bad thing about going to court?
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
17. Tell us how to do a better job helping kids like you.
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
We like to get drawings from kids. Please draw us a picture
about court.
My Picture
© 2006 Centre for Children and©Families
in the
System
2006 Centre
forJustice
Children
& Families in the Justice System (London Family Court Clinic, Inc.)
Agency Use Only:
Date: ______________________
Location: ___________________
My Day in Court
Your ideas help us make it easier for other kids who are called to court. This form
gives you a chance to tell us what it was like to be a witness in court. Some kids
testify and some don’t, but all of their opinions are important. We collect this
information to improve our services and also to help judges and lawyers to
understand what this process is like from a kid’s side.
You don’t have to write your name on this sheet.
Your answers are private.
Age: ____
Victim
Witness
Gender:
Male
Female
Relationship of Accused: ______________________
While you were waiting for your court date …
1. Who helped you learn about court?
A person from Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP)
A person from a Court Preparation Program that specializes in children and teenagers
Both
Other _______________________________
No one
Age 12 and Over
Age 12 and over
Rev: 30 October 06
2. There are some ways young people learn about court. Did you use any of these?
a) Meeting with a child witness program
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
b) Meeting with a victim services program
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
c) Meeting with a Crown Attorney
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
d) Special book about court
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
e) Information brochures or pamphlets
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
f) Cory’s Website or other site
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
g) DVD or video about court
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
h) TV shows about court
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
i) Internet and/or my own research
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
j) Talking to my friends
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
k) Tour of the courthouse
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
l) Other? _______________________
helped me
didn’t help me
didn’t use
3. Which of these was most helpful? ____________________________________
4. Thinking about the people who work in the court system, did you get enough help learning
about court?
I got lots of help
I needed more help
I got no help
I didn’t need any help
5. What could we have done better to help you?
_________________________________________________________________
6. Were you worried about going to court?
Not Worried
A Little Worried
Very Worried
7. What worried you most? _______________________________________________
8. Did someone help you with those worries?
Yes
No
How? _____________________________________________________________
☺ If you did not have to talk to a judge, go to question #15.
Age 12 and over
Rev: 30 October 06
Your Day in Court …
9. Did you testify and tell the judge what happened?
Yes
No
10. Did you use closed circuit TV while you testified?
Yes
No
I’m not sure
What would you tell other kids about closed circuit TV?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
11. Did a support person sit or stand with you while you testified?
Yes
No
I’m not sure
What was that like for you? _____________________________________________
12. Was there a screen in front of you so you didn’t have to see the accused?
Yes
No
I’m not sure
What would you tell other kids about using a screen? __________________________
__________________________________________________________________
13. Were you able to say everything about what happened?
Yes
No
If no, why was that?
I was too scared
It was too embarrassing
Nobody asked me the right questions
I forgot some parts to say
Were there any other reasons? ________________________________________
14. How can we make it easier for young witnesses to say everything to the judge?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Age 12 and over
Rev: 30 October 06
After court …
15. Was there any good thing about going to court?
_________________________________________________________________
16. Did anything bad happen because you went to court?
_________________________________________________________________
17. What should we know to help other kids who have to go to court?
________________________________________________________________
18. Would any of these things have helped you?
More preparation sessions
Yes
No, I didn’t need this
Use language kids understand
Yes
Finish the case faster
Yes
If people explained things better
Yes
A language interpreter
Yes
19. Anything else you’d like to say? ________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
☺
Thank you for taking the time to fill out this form! ☺
© 2006 Centre for Children
and Families
inChildren
the Justice
System in the Justice System (London Family Court Clinic, Inc.)
© 2006
Centre for
& Families
For more information, contact Pamela Hurley, Child Witness Project - [email protected]
Agency Use Only:
Date: ______________________
Location: ___________________
My Child’s Day in Court
As a parent or caregiver, watching a child be a court witness can be stressful and sometimes
traumatic. Maybe your child had a difficult experience in the months before court, or maybe
not. Maybe your child testified, or maybe not. Whatever happened, you probably know a lot
of things today that you didn’t know before.
We would like to hear your feedback. Your information will help us improve services for
children, teenagers and their families.
Your answers are confidential and anonymous. Please do not write your name on this
sheet. Filling in this survey should take about 10 minutes, if you have one child who was
called as a witness, and a little longer of you have more than one child. We are grateful to
get your answers even if you don’t complete all the questions.
1. Your child’s case was heard in a court in what city or town? ________________
2. Approximately, how far away is that court location from where you live? ______________
3. How many times did you visit a courthouse (including appointments with child witness
programs, victim/witness services and the Crown Attorney)? _________
4. Were you expecting to testify as well?
Yes
5. If so, did you testify?
Yes, once
No
Yes, twice
Parent or Guardian
Parent or Guardian
Rev: 30 October 06
No, never
As a parent or caregiver, in the months before the court date...
6. Did you get enough information about the case such as any changes in court dates?
Yes
No
7. Did you get help to understand the court process in general?
Yes
No
No, I knew this already
8. Was there someone you could ask questions if you needed to?
Yes
No
I never had any questions
9. Write any comments here about your experience as a parent or caregiver of a child called
to testify:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
10. How many of your children were expected to testify, as a victim or as a witness? _______
Please Note: If you had one child who was expected to testify, please complete the questions
on the remainder of this form. If you had two or more children who were called to testify,
please use the separate page or pages provided to complete questions regarding the
additional children.
About my first child who was expected to testify (or my only child who was expected to
testify)...
11. This child is a ...
female
male
12. When this case was in court, he or she was _________ years old.
13. He or she was a ...
victim
witness
14. What was the relationship between this child and the accused? ____________________
15. The case involved [check all that apply]
sexual offences
physical violence such as assault
adult domestic violence
other, ___________________________
16. If the case involved domestic violence, who was the victim or victims?
me
another adult
this child
other ______________
17. Was your child worried about testifying?
A little bit worried
A lot worried
Not worried at all
18. What were your child’s greatest worries?
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
19. Did anyone help with those worries?
Yes, __________________________
No
20. Overall, did your child get enough help preparing to testify (whether they testified in the
end or not)?
Yes
No
They didn’t need help
21. Do you have any suggestions for what could have been better?
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
22. Were any of the following aids considered to help your child testify?
Testifying via closed circuit TV from outside the courtroom
Using a screen to block the view of the accused
Having a support person sit with them
Other: _________________________________________________________
23. As a parent or caregiver, did you know these options were available?
Yes, they were explained to me or my child
No, I didn’t know but my child would not need these anyway
No, I didn’t know and I would like to have been told about them
Other: ________________________________________________________
24. Did your child ever come to the courthouse planning to testify, but the testimony was
cancelled or postponed?
no
once
twice
more than twice
25. In the end, did your child testify?
no
once
twice
more than twice
If your child did not testify, please skip ahead to question 28.
26. Did your child testify using closed-circuit television?
Yes
No
I’m not sure
If no, why not? _________________________________________
If yes, please describe if this aid was helpful or not:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
27. Did your child testify using a screen?
Yes
No
I’m not sure
If no, why not? _________________________________________
If yes, please describe if this aid was helpful or not
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
After the verdict...
28. Were you clear on how the case ended, such as the verdict and the sentence?
Yes, I understood
No, I wish things had been explained better
29. This is what I know now, that I wish I had known at the beginning of this case:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
30. Based on my experience as a parent or caregiver, these are my recommendations:
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Thank you very much for helping us understand the opinions of parents such as yourself.
À l’usage exclusif de l’organisme
client :
Date : __________________
Âge ____
Fille
Garçon
Lieu : ___________________
Tu es maintenant un expert pour ce qui est d’aller en cour. Dis-nous
comment ça s’est passé afin que nous puissions aider d’autres enfants.
1. Quelle est la chose dont tu te souviens le mieux de ta journée
en cour?
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
© 2006 Centre des enfants, des familles et le système de justice (London Family Court Clinic, Inc.)
APPRENDRE CE QU’EST LA COUR
Les personnes qui doivent témoigner en cour apprennent des tas de
nouvelles choses.
2. Est-ce que quelqu’un t’a aidé à apprendre ce qu’est la cour?
Oui
Non
Qui : __________________
3. Qu’est-ce que tu as appris?
____________________________________________
4. Comment as-tu appris ce qu’est la cour?
J’ai
J’ai
J’ai
J’ai
J’ai
J’ai
J’ai
lu un livre spécial
consulté un site Web
regardé un DVD ou un vidéo
parlé à l’avocat de la Couronne
rencontré une personne de confiance spéciale de la cour qui aide les enfants
regardé des émissions de télé sur la cour
visité le palais de justice
As-tu utilisé d’autres moyens pour apprendre ce qu’est la cour?
____________________________________________
5. Quelle est la meilleure façon d’apprendre ce qu’est la cour
pour des enfants de ton âge?
____________________________________________
6. Étais-tu inquiet à l’idée d’aller en cour?
Pas du tout
Un peu
Beaucoup
7. Qu’est-ce qui t’inquiétait?
____________________________________________
8. Est-ce que quelqu’un t’a aidé concernant ce qui t’inquiétait?
Oui
Non
Qui : __________________
ALLER EN COUR
9. As-tu parlé à un juge de ce qui s’est passé?
Oui
Non
Je ne me souviens pas
☺ Si tu n’as pas parlé à un juge, saute à la question no 15.
10.
Est-ce que quelqu’un était avec toi quand tu as parlé au juge?
Oui
Non
Je ne me souviens pas
11. As-tu utilisé une télévision en circuit fermé
pour parler au juge?
Oui
Non
Je ne suis pas certain
Qu’est-ce que tu dirais à d’autres enfants
concernant la télévision en circuit fermé?
_____________________________________________
12. Y avait-il un écran devant toi pour que tu ne vois pas l’accusé?
Oui
Non
J’ai aimé l’écran
Je n’ai pas aimé l’écran
Qu’est-ce que tu dirais à d’autres enfants concernant l’écran?
_____________________________________________
13. Quelle a été la chose positive quand tu as parlé au juge?
____________________________________________
14. Quelle a été la chose négative quand tu as parlé au juge?
____________________________________________
15. Y a-t-il eu quelque chose de positif en cour?
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
16. Y a-t-il eu quelque chose de négatif en cour?
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
17. Dis-nous comment nous pourrions mieux aider des enfants
comme toi.
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
____________________________________________
Nous aimons recevoir des dessins d’enfants. Fais-nous un dessin
de ta journée en cour.
Mon dessin
À l’usage exclusif de
l’organisme client :
Date : __________________
Lieu : ___________________
Ma journée en cour
Tes commentaires vont nous aider à faciliter la tâche à d’autres enfants qui
doivent témoigner en cour. Ce formulaire te fournit l’occasion de nous raconter
ton expérience en tant que témoin. Certains enfants doivent témoigner, alors que
d’autres n’ont pas à le faire, mais l’opinion de tous ces enfants est importante.
Nous recueillons ces renseignements dans le but d’améliorer nos services et
d’aider les juges et les avocats à comprendre le point de vue de l’enfant témoin.
Il n’est pas nécessaire d’inscrire ton nom sur
ce questionnaire. Tes réponses demeureront
confidentielles.
Âge : ____
Victime
Témoin
Sexe :
Masculin
Féminin
Relation avec l’accusé : ______________________
En attendant la date à laquelle tu devais témoigner en cours…
1. Qui t’as appris en quoi consiste la cour?
Une personne du Programme d’aide aux victimes et aux témoins
Une personne du Programme préparatoire judiciaire qui aide les enfants et adolescents
Les deux
Autre _______________________________
Personne
12 ans et plus
2. Il y a différents moyens pour les jeunes d’apprendre en quoi consiste la cour. As-tu
utilisé l’un de ces moyens? Si c’est le cas, est-ce que cela a été utile?
a) Rencontres du Programme d’aide pour les enfants témoins
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
b) Recontres du Programme d’aide aux victimes
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
c) Rencontre avec un avocat de la Couronne
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
d) Livre spécial sur la cour
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
e) Brochures ou dépliants informatifs
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
f) Site Web de Cory ou autre site
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
g) DVD ou vidéo sur la cour
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
h) Émissions de télé sur la cour
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
i) Internet et/ou mes propres recherches
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
j) Parler à mes ami(e)s
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
k) Visite guidée du Palais de justice
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
l) Autre? _______________________
m’a aidé
ne m’a pas aidé
pas utilisé
3. Lequel de ces moyens a été le plus utile? ____________________________________
4. Si tu penses aux gens qui travaillent dans le système judiciaire, as-tu reçu l’aide
nécessaire pour savoir en quoi consiste la cour?
J’ai reçu beaucoup d’aide
J’avais besoin d’aide davantage
Je n’ai reçu aucune aide
Je n’avais pas besoin d’aide
5. Qu’est-ce qui aurait pu t’aider davantage?
_________________________________________________________________
6. Étais-tu inquiet à l’idée d’aller en cour?
Pas du tout
Un peu
Beaucoup
7. Qu’est-ce qui t’inquiétait le plus? _________________________________________
8. Est-ce que quelqu’un t’a aidé?
Oui
Non
Comment? __________________________________________________________
☺ Si tu n’as pas eu besoin de parler à un juge, saute à la question no 15.
Ta journée en cour…
9. As-tu témoigné et raconté au juge ce qui s’est passé?
Oui
Non
10. As-tu utilisé une télévision en circuit fermé pour témoigner?
Oui
Non
Qu’est-ce que tu dirais à d’autres enfants concernant la télévision
en circuit fermé?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
11. Est-ce qu’une personne de confiance était avec toi durant ton témoignage?
Oui
Non
Comment t’es-tu senti? _____________________________________________
12. Y avait-il un écran devant toi afin que tu ne vois pas l’accusé?
Oui
Non
Qu’est-ce que tu dirais à d’autres enfants concernant l’écran? ____________________
__________________________________________________________________
13. As-tu été capable de tout raconter ce qui s’est passé?
Oui
Non
Si tu n’as pas réussi, pourquoi?
J’avais trop peur
C’était trop embarrassant
Personne ne m’a posé les bonnes questions
J’ai oublié certaines choses que je voulais dire
Autres raisons? ________________________________________
14. Comment pourrions-nous faire en sorte que les jeunes témoins racontent tout au juge?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Après ton témoignage en cour…
15. Est-ce que ton témoignage en cour t’a apporté quelque chose de positif?
_________________________________________________________________
16. Est-ce que ton témoignage en cour a entraîné des conséquences négatives?
_________________________________________________________________
17. Qu’est-ce que nous devrions savoir pour aider d’autres enfants qui doivent également
témoigner en cour?
________________________________________________________________
18. Les éléments suivants auraient-ils pu t’aider?
Plus de séances préparatoires
Oui
Non, pas nécessaire
Utiliser un langage que les enfants comprennent
Oui
Finaliser le cas plus rapidement
Oui
Explications plus claires
Oui
Recours à un interprète
Oui
19. Autres commentaires?_______________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
☺
Merci d’avoir pris le temps de remplir ce questionnaire! ☺
À l’usage exclusif de l’organisme
client :
Date : _________________
Lieu: ___________________
La journée de mon enfant en cour
En tant que parent ou parent-substitut, c’est parfois stressant et traumatisant de regarder un
enfant témoigner en cour. Votre enfant a peut-être eu ou non une expérience difficile durant
les mois qui ont précédé son témoignage en cour. Votre enfant a peut-être témoigné ou
non. Quel que soit le cas, vous savez probablement beaucoup de choses que vous ne saviez
pas auparavant.
Nous aimerions avoir vos commentaires afin d’améliorer les services offerts aux enfants, aux
adolescents et à leur famille.
Vos réponses demeureront anonymes et confidentielles. Veuillez ne pas inscrire votre nom
sur ce questionnaire. Remplir ce questionnaire devrait vous prendre environ 10 minutes (si
seulement un de vos enfants a témoigné en cour) et quelques minutes de plus (si plus d’un
de vos enfants a témoigné en cour). Même si vous ne répondez pas à toutes les questions,
nous vous sommes reconnaissants de bien vouloir remplir ce questionnaire.
1. La cause de votre enfant a été entendue au palais de justice de quelle ville?
_____________________________
2. À quelle distance approximative de votre domicile se trouve ce palais de justice?
_____________________________
3. Combien de fois êtes-vous allé au palais de justice (y compris pour des rendez-vous avec
les services aux victimes et témoins et l’avocat de la Couronne)? _________
4. Avez-vous également témoigné?
Oui
5. Dans l’affirmative, avez-vous témoigné?
Oui, une fois
Non
Oui, deux fois
Parent ou tuteur
Non, jamais
En tant que parent ou parent-substitut, que s’est-il passé durant les mois précédant la date à
laquelle votre enfant devait témoigner en cour...
6. Avez-vous obtenu suffisamment d’information sur la cause en question, p. ex.,
changements des dates de comparution en cour?
Oui
Non
7. Avez-vous obtenu de l’aide pour comprendre le déroulement des procédures en général?
Oui
Non
Non, je savais déjà
8. Y avait-il une personne à qui vous pouviez poser des questions, au besoin?
Oui
Non
Je n’avais aucune question
9. Décrivez votre expérience en tant que parent ou parent-substitut :
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
10. Combien de vos enfants devaient témoigner en tant que victime ou témoin? _______
Veuillez noter : Si l’un de vos enfants devait témoigner, veuillez remplir le reste du présent
formulaire. Si deux de vos enfants ou plus devaient témoigner, veuillez utiliser la ou les
pages additionnelles fournies à cet effet.
Renseignements sur mon premier (ou seul) enfant qui devait témoigner...
20. Cet enfant est...
une fille
un garçon
21. Lorsque ce cas a été débattu en cour, mon enfant avait ____ ans.
22. Mon enfant était...
une victime
un témoin
23. Quelle était la relation entre l’enfant et l’accusé? ____________________
24. Cas concerné [cochez toutes les cases qui s’appliquent]
infractions sexuelles
violence physique, p. ex., voie de fait
violence familiale entre adultes
autre : ___________________________
25. S’il s’agit de violence familiale, qui étaient la ou les victimes?
moi
autre adulte
cet enfant
autre ______________
26. Votre enfant était-il inquiet à l’idée de témoigner en cour?
Un peu
Beaucoup
Pas du tout
27. Qu’est-ce qui l’inquiétait le plus?
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
28. Est-ce que quelqu’un l’a aidé concernant ces inquiétudes?
Oui __________________________
Non
20. En général, est-ce que votre enfant était bien préparé à témoigner (qu’il ait témoigné ou
non)?
Oui
Non
Il n’avait pas besoin d’aide
21. Avez-vous des suggestions pour mieux préparer un enfant témoin?
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
22. A-t-on utilisé les moyens suivants pour aider votre enfant à témoigner en cour?
Témoignage à l’extérieur de la cour avec une télévision en circuit fermé
Utilisation d’un écran
Personne qui s’assoit avec l’enfant
Autre : _________________________________________________________
23. En tant que parent ou parent-substitut, saviez-vous que les options suivantes étaient
offertes?
Oui, on me les avait expliqué
Non, je ne savais pas, mais mon enfant n’en avait pas besoin
de toute façon
Non, je ne savais pas et j’aurais aimé qu’on m’en informe
Autre : ________________________________________________________
24. Est-ce que votre enfant s’est déjà présenté au palais de justice pour témoigner, mais son
témoignage a été annulé ou reporté?
non
une fois
deux fois
plus de deux fois
25. Finalement, est-ce que votre enfant a témoigné?
non
une fois
deux fois
plus de deux fois
Si votre enfant n’a pas témoigné, sautez à la question no 28.
26. Est-ce que votre enfant a témoigné en utilisant une télévision en circuit fermé?
Oui
Non
Pas certain
Dans la négative, pourquoi pas? _______________________________________
Dans l’affirmative, est-ce que ce moyen a été utile ou non?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
27. Est-ce que votre enfant a témoigné en utilisant un écran?
Oui
Non
Pas certain
Dans la négative, pourquoi pas? _______________________________________
Dans l’affirmative, est-ce que ce moyen a été utile ou non?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Après le verdict...
28. Avez-vous bien compris le verdict ou le jugement?
Oui, j’ai bien compris
Non, cela aurait pu être mieux expliqué
29. Voici ce que je sais présentement et que j’aurais aimé savoir au tout début de cette
affaire :
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
30. D’après mon expérience en tant que parent ou parent-substitut, voici mes
recommandations :
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Merci beaucoup. Les commentaires de parents comme vous
nous sont très utiles.

My Day in Court - Centre for Children and Families in the Justice

Transcription

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