In Person Court Preparation

In Person Court Preparation

The CCAA Court Preparation Program was developed to support young witnesses, as well as the adults who care for them, when they may be required to testify in court. Proper preparation is essential; without it, the court experience can increase trauma for children and youth, place added stress on families, and potentially affect a young witness’s ability to provide reliable testimony.

This in-person program provides guided, age-appropriate court preparation delivered by trained and experienced facilitators. Parents and caregivers are included to help them understand the court process and learn how to best support the young witness before, during, and after testimony.

This initiative is a collaborative effort between Alberta Justice and Solicitor General and Public Security (Victim Services) and the CCAA.

The program is structured to ensure strict non-contamination of evidence. No details of the child or youth’s individual circumstances are discussed, and no disclosure is taken at any time.

  • EXPLORING FEARS AND ANXIETIES
  • BREATHING / RELAXATION
  • COURT ROLES AND PROTOCOLS
  • COURT PROCESS
  • MEMORY STRATEGIES
  • INTERACTIVE MOCK COURT
  • CROSS-EXAMINATION VIDEO

Additional Information

Children, Youth & Families Benefit from:

  • Engaging with experienced court preparation
    professionals through virtual sessions.
  • Having flexibility to book sessions that fit your schedule.
  • Receiving comparable content and support to that of an in-person court preparation experience.
  • The program is FREE.

Criminal Justice Professionals Benefit from:

  • Accessing court preparation services at NO COST for any child or youth who must testify in court.

  • Clients are supported by evidence-based practices that prioritize learning about the court system and preparing for courtroom questioning.

  • Ensuring all clients, regardless of location, can access learning opportunities through the use of technology.

  • The program is FREE.

Referrals are received from the Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, police, Crown Prosecutors, child intervention workers, therapists, teachers, parents or guardians. However, referrals from other sources may also be considered.

Please contact us at info@ccaa.org or (403) 289-8385 for more information about the Child Witness Court Preparation Program.

THE CCAA’S COURT PREPARATION CONTENT FEATURES

Possible Court Fears

Breathing & Relaxation

Court Roles

Court Rules