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Going to court if you are blind or visually impaired

If you are blind or visually impaired, the court should provide information about the communication support and facilities that are available to you.

Facilities and services at courts

You should be able to visit the court before you formally need to attend court. This will give you a chance to get a feel for the surroundings and to ask the customer service officer any questions you may have.

To arrange a pre-court visit, contact the customer service officer at the court you are due to attend. You can find details about how to contact the court on any communication you have been sent or via the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service website.

Information in alternative formats

All information can be made available in a wide range of alternative formats - requests for these formats can be made to the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service.

Assistance and guide dogs

Guide dogs are allowed into the courtroom. Going to court, particularly as a jury member, can mean long days. If required, it should be possible for your dog to be looked after while you are in the courtroom.

If a court session is long and your dog needs a break, you may need to arrange this with the judge via courtroom staff. Someone may also be able to take your dog for a walk.

If you require any of these services, contact the customer services officer or any other member of the court staff and they will be able to discuss your requirements and make any necessary arrangements.

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) and going to court

In certain circumstances, the DDA allows public bodies to justify less favourable treatment to ensure that a fair balance is struck between the rights of disabled people and wider concerns.

For example, a decision not to call a blind person for jury service in a particular case where it is considered vital that the jury can consider a good deal of the evidence visually is likely to be justified.

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