To access the service, defence counsel (for defendants and defence witnesses) or the police officer in charge or prosecutor (for prosecution witnesses), must submit an application form [PDF, 1.4 MB] to the court for the judge's consideration. Save a copy of this form to your computer before you fill it out. Continue to save it as you complete the form.
Make an application for communication assistance when you suspect a participant may be unable to effectively communicate with you or understand and answer questions in a court environment. Many of the participants who use communication assistance have a disability, autism or other neurodiversity, brain injury or under-developed language and communication skills. The service is also available for child participants.
This document provides guidance on what to look for [PDF, 31 KB] when you are considering applying for communication assistance.
The details provided in the application form will assist the judge to determine whether they should direct a communication assessment. It also gives the communication assistance provider all the information they need to proceed with an assessment.
Legal aid lawyers working on a case where a communication assistant has been engaged may apply for an amendment to grant if significant additional work is required. More information can be found in the Ministry's Legal Aid Services Grants handbook.