The Vulnerable Witnesses (Scotland) Act 2004

The Vulnerable Witnesses (Scotland) Act 2004 amends the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995 for criminal cases, and creates a similar regime for civil cases, so that vulnerability of witnesses is to be considered, and measures taken to support vulnerable witnesses to give evidence effectively. This book, containing the Act's main provisions with commentary, is an excellent companion to the Act for those who lead of hear witness in court of have concern for the vulnerability of witnesses. Written by Laura Sharp and Margaret Ross, both law academics, the book is informed by their experience of vulnerable witnesses in practice. It provides an essential reference for lawyers and others dealing with young people and adults who may be vulnerable as potential witnesses. The Authors Laura Sharp is a Lecturer in Law and Course leader for Diploma in Legal Practice at the Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, and a former Principal Procurator Fiscal Depute. Margaret Ross is head of Law at the University of Aberdeen, a solicitor and curator ad litem, and a former Mental Welfare Commissioner for Scotland. Contents: Introduction Definitions of "Vulnerable Witness" in Civil and Criminal Case and the Special Measures Procedures in Criminal Cases: Child Witnesses Procedures in Criminal Cases: Adult Vulnerable Witnesses Review of Special Measures, Application to the Accused, Supplementary and Saving Provisions and Application of Vulnerable Witness Provisions to Proceedings in the District Court Miscellaneous Amendments to existing Criminal Justice Legislation Civil Proceedings and Vulnerable Witnesses: Scope and Procedures Abolition of the Competence Test for Witnesses in Criminal and Civil Proceedings [DUP logo]