Court process expectation

Houseway

Hi

I have a circuit court appearance next week. It’s not a typical criminal case but it is a criminal case. I’m trying to say I haven’t been accused of anything extremely bad such as violence or drugs etc. Either way I’m very stressed. This appearance is for service of book of evidence.

Can anyone tell me what to expect in terms of process on the day? Will I have much to say? Should I expect reporters to photograph me or do a news article naming me?

I’d really appreciate if you’re of the ‘Dont do the crime’ persuasion if you’d resist the urge to lambaste me. I’m not looking for legal advice either rather what to expect.

PommieBast

Houseway wrote: »

Can anyone tell me what to expect in terms of process on the day? Will I have much to say? Should I expect reporters to photograph me or do a news article naming me?

Far as I am aware photogaphy is banned anywhere within the court building. If your case has not already been mentioned in the media aleady it is doubful anyone will bother reporting it.



As for what to say that is a question for your appointed representative.

punisher5112

Wear a face mask in and out, pictures are useless then, use to get great fun out of walking up with the head down so much they'd think I was in for something crazy....

Your solicitor will advise, if you don't have one I'd recommend getting one.


I've been in the ccj a few times and was dragged through a load of crap ...

punisher5112

Wear a face mask in and out, pictures are useless then, use to get great fun out of walking up with the head down so much they'd think I was in for something crazy....

Your solicitor will advise, if you don't have one I'd recommend getting one.


I've been in the ccj a few times and was dragged through a load of crap ...

Photos or videos only once outside in a public place, nothing inside can be used other then if a reporter is say writing down what's happening.

Unless you're high profile I'd say you're well safe.

thenightman

Houseway wrote: »

Hi

I have a circuit court appearance next week. It’s not a typical criminal case but it is a criminal case. I’m trying to say I haven’t been accused of anything extremely bad such as violence or drugs etc. Either way I’m very stressed. This appearance is for service of book of evidence.

Can anyone tell me what to expect in terms of process on the day? Will I have much to say? Should I expect reporters to photograph me or do a news article naming me?

I’d really appreciate if you’re of the ‘Dont do the crime’ persuasion if you’d resist the urge to lambaste me. I’m not looking for legal advice either rather what to expect.

Books of evidence are served in the District Court and your case is then sent forward for trial to the Circuit. You shouldn't have to say much. DPP will serve book and consent to sending you forward for trial. Judge will give you an alibi warning and send your case forward and thats that really. The CCJ in Dublin usually has 2 or 3 newspaper reporters popping in and out of the court rooms to try and catch something juicy, unsure of other courts press coverage. Just pot luck if your case is called in their presence. No photography is allowed in court buildings themselves and mask + a winter hat should keep you covered in case photographers outside.

Atlantic Dawn

A criminal case will mean a jury, it will be stressful, you need to talk to your solicitor about expectations, try to get a suit or formal clothing and have as much of a neutral look for the court as possible. You will be the centre of attention for the court, this is pressure but manageable. Don't assume the jury is out from the start to find you guilty, the opposite can be the case, they will assess the evidence, if it's piss poor they will question it when forming their decision. It is your right to not say a single word for the entire court case, this may be a route worth considering as questioning can often lead to doubt being cast even for someone 100% innocent.

Houseway

thenightman wrote: »

Books of evidence are served in the District Court and your case is then sent forward for trial to the Circuit. You shouldn't have to say much. DPP will serve book and consent to sending you forward for trial. Judge will give you an alibi warning and send your case forward and thats that really. The CCJ in Dublin usually has 2 or 3 newspaper reporters popping in and out of the court rooms to try and catch something juicy, unsure of other courts press coverage. Just pot luck if your case is called in their presence. No photography is allowed in court buildings themselves and mask + a winter hat should keep you covered in case photographers outside.

I was kinda hoping that due to covid there won’t be ‘2 or 3 newspapers reporters popping in and out’.

Also someone else said ask your solicitor what to say. Of course that’s what I’ll do but I more meant what talking would I be expected to do from others experience. I think it’ll be none or just to confirm my name at this stage.

Thanks for all the input. It’s appreciated.

I’m assuming I’m more at risk of photos leaving than entering.

Houseway

So I’ve been told that the book of evidence isn’t ready And that an extended extension period will be requested. Normal extension is two weeks and they are requesting four weeks.
I now don’t need to attend this hearing due to covid and my solicitor will represent in my place.

Should I read anything into the fact the book isn’t ready? Should I see as a positive or negative?

PommieBast

Houseway wrote: »

Should I read anything into the fact the book isn’t ready? Should I see as a positive or negative?

With pretty much the whole state having ground to a halt, not really anything you can draw from this.