Learn about the roles of the people who work in the courtroom

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Roles of the people in the courtroom

Roles of the people in the courtroom
Download the PDF at the bottom of this page.

The Judge

The Judge

The judge is in charge and must ensure that the accused gets a fair trial - ensuring the trial is presented to the jury in a logical and balanced way.  The judge settles any legal argument, directs the jury and if the defendant is found guilty, decides the appropriate sentence.

The Court Registrar

The Court Registrar

The court registrar has many responsibilities essential to the running of the court including the preparation of the judge’s papers, calling each case in court and assisting witnesses in taking the oath or affirmation.  The registrar will also take the verdict from the jury foreman.

Witnesses

Witnesses

A witness is a person who gives evidence in the trial either on behalf of the prosecution or the defence.  They may be cross-examined by the opposing side as to the accuracy of their evidence.

The Accused

The Accused

Also known as the defendant, the person accused of the crime.  He or she does not have to prove their innocence – it is for the prosecution to prove that they are guilty.  If he accused person is in custody, they will be escorted to court by a prison officer.

The Lawyers

The Lawyers

The case is usually presented by barristers (also referred to as ‘counsel’). There are barristers for the prosecution representing the State who bring the case (known as 'counsel for the prosecution') and barristers for the accused person (known as 'counsel for the defence'). The barristers receive their instructions from solicitors who sit facing them.

The prosecution barristers address the court.  It is their job to present the evidence against the defendant.  They explain to the court what the defendant is accused of doing and are responsible for presenting the case against the defendant

Defendants can appoint their own defence team, or, if they are unable to afford it, have state-appointed counsel to represent them.

Counsel for the defence represents the person accused of the offence or offences.  They do this by questioning the prosecution case and presenting evidence on behalf of the defendant. 

Others

Others

Members of the press are often in court to report on the case for radio and television broadcasts or publication in newspapers.

Members of the public can come in to the courtroom to view a case except where the case is being held ‘in camera’ (private).  See more in our ‘Visit a Courthouse’ page.

Download the ‘Who's Who in the Criminal Court’ poster above (as a PDF document).