Testifying in Court - Information for Victims

Last updated on June 8, 2021

As a victim of crime, you may be called to court to provide evidence. You will be required to make a statement based on personal knowledge and facts. You must tell the truth about the facts of the case, as you know them. This is referred to as testifying in court. 

In addition to testifying in court, you can submit Victim Impact Statement to the court. The statement will be read during sentencing. This allows you, as a victim, to tell the court how this crime has affected you.

Your trial will probably not take place for some time after the crime was committed or even after you have given your Victim Impact Statement to Crown counsel.

Because of this, when you come to court, you can ask to see your original statement to refresh your memory about the details.

Once you provide your testimony, your obligation to the court is usually completed.

More Information

For more information, visit: