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Early Stage

Supporting Someone in Court

What to expect when you’re interviewed by police, your rights, and how to prepare for this important stage of the process.

  • 8 min read
  • Free to download

Contents

When Someone You Care About is in Court
Being Present in Court
Practical Ways to Help
Emotional Support
Writing a Character Reference
Looking After Yourself
After the Court Process

When Someone You Care About is in Court

When someone you love faces criminal charges, it affects the whole family. You want to help, but you might not know how. This guide is for family members, partners, and friends who want to support someone through the court process.

Your support can make a significant difference to their wellbeing and even to the outcome of their case.

Remember: You’re not alone. Many families go through this, and there’s no shame in seeking help for yourself too.

Being Present in Court

You can usually attend court hearings as a member of the public. Here’s what you need to know:

Can You Attend?

  • Most adult criminal cases are held in open court
  • You sit in the public gallery, separate from the person you’re supporting
  • Some cases (especially involving children or sexual offences) may be closed
  • The judge can restrict attendance in certain circumstances

Court Rules for Supporters

  • Arrive early and go through security
  • Turn off your phone completely
  • No photography or recording
  • Dress respectfully
  • Remain silent during proceedings
  • Stand when magistrates/judge enter or leave

Practical Ways to Help

There are many practical ways you can support someone going through the justice system:

Before Court
  • Help them find and contact a solicitor
  • Assist with gathering documents
  • Help them understand what to expect
  • Plan transport to court
  • Help choose appropriate clothing

On Court Day

  • Accompany them to court
  • Wait with them before their case
  • Sit in the public gallery
  • Be there after the hearing
  • Help them process what happened
Day-to-Day Support
  • Listen without judgment
  • Help with childcare or household tasks
  • Assist with bail condition compliance
  • Remind them of appointments
  • Encourage self-care
Financial Help
  • Help with travel costs
  • Assist with legal fees if needed
  • Help manage bills if income affected
  • Research benefits or support available

Emotional Support

The emotional toll of facing charges is immense. Here’s how to provide emotional support:

What Helps

  • Listen without judgment – Let them talk without offering opinions on guilt or innocence.
  • Be patient – They may be withdrawn, irritable, or emotional. Try not to take it personally.
  • Maintain normality – Continue doing normal activities together when possible.
  • Validate feelings – Fear, anxiety, and anger are all normal responses.
  • Remind them they’re more than this – Their identity is not defined by this situation.

What to Avoid

  • Asking “Did you do it?” – It doesn’t help and puts them in a difficult position.
  • Offering false reassurance – “It’ll be fine” isn’t helpful if you don’t know that.
  • Bringing it up constantly – Sometimes they need a break from thinking about it.
  • Sharing their situation without permission – Respect their privacy.

Writing a Character Reference

You may be asked to write a character reference for court. This can be powerful evidence in mitigation. Here’s how to write an effective one:

What to Include

  • How you know them and for how long
  • Positive aspects of their character
  • Their role in family/community
  • How they’ve changed or shown remorse (if applicable)
  • The impact a custodial sentence would have on dependents

What NOT to Include

  • Opinions on guilt or innocence
  • Criticism of the police or prosecution
  • Excuses for the behaviour
  • Anything not true
  • Information they haven’t agreed you can share
Always have the solicitor review the reference before it goes to court. They can advise if anything should be changed.

Looking After Yourself

Supporting someone through criminal proceedings is exhausting. It’s essential to look after your own wellbeing too.

Recognise the Impact on You

You may experience:

  • Anxiety and worry
  • Shame or embarrassment
  • Anger (at them, the situation, or the system)
  • Isolation from friends or community
  • Conflicting feelings about the person you’re supporting

Self-Care for Supporters

  • Talk to someone – A trusted friend, counsellor, or support group.
  • Set boundaries – You can’t help effectively if you’re burned out.
  • Take breaks – It’s okay to step away sometimes.
  • Maintain your own life – Keep up with work, hobbies, and social connections.
  • Seek support – Organisations exist specifically for families affected by the justice system.

After the Court Process

Whatever the outcome, the period after court can be challenging:

If They’re Acquitted

Relief is normal, but the experience leaves scars. They may need time to process what happened and rebuild confidence. Relationships may need repair.

If They Receive a Community Sentence

Help them comply with conditions. Understand the requirements (unpaid work, curfew, programmes) and support them to complete successfully.

If They Go to Prison

This is devastating for families. You may need support for:

  • Arranging and attending prison visits
  • Managing household and finances alone
  • Explaining to children
  • Coping with stigma
  • Preparing for their release

Remember: Organisations like PACT (Prison Advice and Care Trust) provide specific support for families of people in prison.