New measure prevents victims of sexual offences from being cross-examined in court
New protections for victims of sexual offences available
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The scheme allows victims and witnesses of crimes, such as rape and modern slavery, to have their cross-examination video-recorded and played later during trial.
The recording will take place as close to the time of the offence as possible. It will take place outside of the courtroom, to reduce further stress and trauma.
From 12 May 2022, the measures became available immediately in 14 crown courts, including Sheffield, Doncaster, Southampton, Bristol and Truro. The government is committed to rolling the scheme out nationwide by September 2022.
Both the defence and prosecution lawyers will be present in court during the pre-recording, as will the judge and defendant.
Read more: New protections for rape victims available at more Crown Courts
