What legal issues arise when a child is a witness to a crime?

When a child is a witness to a crime, he or she can face some unique legal issues. In Pennsylvania, a child might be called to testify in court. In order to protect the child from unnecessary trauma, the court may grant special privileges to the child such as testifying from a different room, testifying out of order (i.e., before the defendant), and having the testimony taken in private with a judge or child advocate present. Also, under certain circumstances, a child may have the right to a court-appointed lawyer or guardian. In addition, the court may order that no contact be made with the child by the defendant or other witnesses. Other legal issues arise when a child is considered a victim of a crime. For instance, the child may have the right to an advocate who can provide legal advice and also provide emotional support to the child throughout the legal process. Furthermore, there are services and resources available to victims of child abuse or neglect that can help the child feel more comfortable and safe throughout the proceedings. Finally, if a child is accused of committing a crime, the court will have to decide whether the accused child is to be tried as an adult or a juvenile. Pennsylvania has complex laws regarding this issue, so it is important for the child and his/her guardian to seek legal advice from a child advocacy lawyer who can help explain the legal options available.

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What legal issues arise when a child is a witness to a crime?

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