Oddbean new post about login | logout Today I experienced the UK court system for the first time, as a prosecution witness in a relatively large Magistrates Court trial. Having read The Secret Barrister I wanted to see how my experience matched up. The trial was scheduled at a court 27 miles from where the witnesses and defendant live: 45 mins by car, over 90 mins by public transport. There are several closer courts but I guess they didn't have space. We were told to be there at 9am for a 9.30 trial start. (1/3)
The court building seemed to be in decent condition and, after 10 minutes queueing at security (the machine beeped for everyone) we were shown up to the witness suite. It had comfy chairs, a TV, working toilets and water - no complaints. I can't praise the staff and volunteers enough - they did a fantastic job of talking us through everything and answering our questions. Their frustration with the lack of funding for the courts system was clear, but they were helpful and understanding. (2/3)