Consultation - Registered Intermediaries in Civil and Family Proceedings

Overview

Registered Intermediaries facilitate communication between a vulnerable person and professionals within the justice system. They advise on the best ways of engaging with a vulnerable person so they understand and can respond to what is being asked during police investigation and at court. 

Since they were first introduced in 2013, Registered Intermediaries have played a vital role in ensuring vulnerable citizens with communication challenges can effectively participate in criminal court proceedings. The Department of Justice recognises vulnerable citizens involved in civil and family cases might equally benefit from the assistance of a Registered Intermediary and is seeking views on extending the support to the civil and family courts.  

The attached paper attached outlines the issues on which we are seeking views and you may find it useful to read this before submitting your response.