Referral guidance and practical tools for communication intermediary matters

Referral timing

When to consider a communication intermediary referral

• Communication needs may affect participation in an interview, hearing or trial.
• A witness or defendant has a known or suspected disability affecting communication.
• Legal questioning may need adjustment to be understood and answered effectively.
• The court or legal team needs independent communication recommendations.

Information

What information to provide

• The person's role in the matter and the stage of proceedings.
• Relevant background, diagnoses, reports or concerns about communication.
• Key dates, including interviews, hearings, special hearings or trial dates.
• The purpose of the referral and any specific questions to be addressed.

Process

Referral process

• Initial enquiry and conflict/availability check.
• Review of referral information and agreement on scope.
• Communication assessment and report preparation.
• Follow-up discussion, court attendance or facilitation where required.

Reports

Report timeframes

Report timeframes depend on urgency, availability, document volume, assessment needs and court dates. Timeframes can be discussed at referral.

Attendance

Court attendance

Where appropriate, communication intermediary involvement may include attendance at an investigative interview, pre-trial or ground rules hearing, special hearing, trial or other justice process.

Fees

Fees and availability

Fees and availability are provided on enquiry and depend on the scope of work, location, urgency, attendance requirements and report needs.