People at court often use difficult words. Questions may seem long or complicated, and hard to understand. An intermediary helps you to understand the questions you are asked, and can help the court understand what you want to say.
You can ask for an intermediary if you are worried that:
- you might not understand questions at court
- it would be difficult for you to say you do not understand
- the court will not understand what you say.
If you would like an intermediary to help you, talk to your police officer or your witness supporter before the day of the trial. The magistrates or judge will decide whether you can have help from an intermediary. If they decide you can, you will meet the intermediary before you go to court. They will sit with you while you give your evidence, help you understand the questions, and help the people asking you questions to understand your answers.