NCJ Number
191628
Date Published
October 2001
Length
92 pages
Annotation
This report presents findings from the national Witness Satisfaction Survey 2000.
Abstract
The first national Witness Satisfaction Survey 2000 in England and Wales examined levels of satisfaction of witnesses both generally and specifically with their treatment by the different key agencies within the criminal justice system. It covers prosecution and defense witnesses in both the Crown Court and magistrates' courts. The survey found that 76 percent of witnesses were satisfied with their overall experience, but that satisfaction was generally higher with regard to treatment by individual agencies. Levels of satisfaction were strongly related to the verdict, the amount of information given to witnesses, feelings of intimidation, facilities at court, waiting times, and convenience of court date. Age, sex, and court type were not strongly linked with satisfaction. The survey notes that, despite the relatively high level of satisfaction with their overall experience, only 61 percent of witnesses said they would be happy to be a witness again. The fact that nearly one-quarter of witnesses were dissatisfied overall suggests that there is room for improvement within the system. Notes, tables, figures, appendix, references