Independent Legal Advice for Complainants

If you have reported a sexual assault or other offence and are involved in a criminal proceeding as a complainant, you have the right to your own independent legal advice, separate from the Crown. The Crown prosecutes the case on behalf of the public, not as your personal lawyer, so having independent counsel means someone is looking out for your interests alone.

This advice can help you understand the court process and what to expect, your rights as a witness, and how your privacy is protected. It is particularly relevant where the defence applies for access to your private records (for example counselling, medical, or personal records) or seeks to introduce evidence about you, where you may have the right to independent legal representation at that stage.