Alienating judicial procedures

Most people are unfamiliar with judicial courts and can be upset by court rituals, the formal and distancing language, uncomfortable environment, and the impression of being an object in the proceedings.

Many witnesses in criminal cases are given little notice of their court appearance and can be kept waiting for days. Victims and witnesses are often intimidated and upset by appearing in court. They must often share waiting rooms with defendants or other witnesses. Witnesses and jurors can be worried by the order summoning them to court, particularly the reference to a fine or imprisonment if they do not comply.