Role
What a Communication Intermediary Does
A communication intermediary facilitates communication so that a vulnerable child or adult suspect or defendant can participate effectively in the legal process — whether at a suspect interview, when giving evidence, or at any point where communication difficulties could hinder meaningful participation at trial.
The intermediary assists defence, prosecution, and the judiciary by ensuring vulnerable individuals — particularly those with disabilities — can understand questions and legal proceedings, and be understood by all parties involved.
Eligibility
Who We Work With
Suspects & Defendants
- Adults (18+ years of age)
- Young people (16–18 years old)
- Children (14–16 years old)
Communication Difficulties May Include
- Speech and language difficulties
- Diagnosed cognitive or intellectual disability
- Difficulty with comprehension
- Autism and/or ADHD
- Difficulty processing complex language or questions
- Difficulty expressing themselves
- Difficulty saying "I don't know" or "I don't understand"
Independent and impartial
Not a questioner
Does not provide emotional support
Not an expert witness
How It Works
The Referral Process
01
Referral
- Initial phone call with the referring agency to discuss the matter
- Referring agency completes a referral form
02
Communication Assessment
- Expressive language: ability to give a personal recount or narrative
- Auditory comprehension and understanding of language, vocabulary, and legalese
- Understanding of questions and ability to respond or refute
- Use of communication aids to support participation and regulate emotions
03
Intermediary Report
- Comprehensive report with clear recommendations for obtaining best evidence or supporting understanding throughout trial
- All visual communication aids included
- Shared with the referring agency, parties, and judge
Services
Communication Intermediary Support
Suspect Interviews
- Works with the investigating officer to frame questions the suspect can comprehend
- Assists with visual aids such as timelines and notes
- Supports the vulnerable suspect in providing evidence
Planning for Trials & Hearings
- Discusses assessment and recommendations at a Ground Rules Hearing with all parties and the judge
- Recommends measures to ensure the defendant can give best evidence
- Conducts court familiarisation or practice questioning on a neutral topic if required
- Facilitates communication throughout trial or when the defendant gives evidence
Case Conferences
- Attends case conferences with the defendant and their legal representatives
- Assists communication and ensures all legal matters can be understood
Assisting at Trial
- Sits with the defendant in the dock
- Explains proceedings — what is said, what is happening
- Assists with providing instructions to legal representatives
- Facilitates communication and use of visual aids
- Monitors emotional regulation and need for breaks