It can be especially difficult to support someone when you are going through something as well. I recommend finding someone with whom you feel comfortable enough to call and discuss your own emotions surrounding the trial. If you don't feel like you can support your friend/family member, tell them sooner rather than later so they can find support. You don't want to sacrifice your own mental health and well-being. 

A big part of being a support person in court is distracting your loved one when they are not testifying. There will be long periods of waiting and the anticipation is often very anxiety-inducing. Talk to them about anything other than court and the case. 

Inform yourself about the court process so you know what to expect. Check out the other sections on this website to learn more about the trial process. 

From personal experience, when I was testifying I was never hungry. My husband who was my support person brought some of my favourite grab-and-go snacks like granola bars, crackers, and trail mix. Make sure that you both are eating and staying hydrated. 

Before and during their testimony, they are not allowed to discuss the case, not even with family or support people. They can talk about the case once the judge has excused them and their testimony is concluded. However, if it is a jury trial, no one can speak to any member of the jury at any time. If anyone tries to get the person you are supporting to alter their testimony, tell the Crown attorney or the police right away. Harassing or attempting to influence a witness is a crime. 

Discuss with the person you are supporting where they would like you to sit. I preferred my support people to sit in direct line of sight with me so I could look at them for support. This being said you need to remain neutral in expression, you don't want the judge or counsel to think you are influencing their testimony. This can be incredibly hard when someone you care about is upset and testifying to difficult events. My husband and I came up with a small signal when he needed to step out of the courtroom to cool off to let me know he was ok and would come back. Be aware of how you are feeling and if you need to step out to collect yourself and take a breath, that is totally acceptable. You are just as important as the person you are supporting and need to remember to take care of and be compassionate towards yourself. 

Evenings can be very difficult for witnesses when testifying. If possible, and only if you and the person you are supporting, stay with them overnight or if that is not possible, check in regularly to make sure they are safe. This is especially important on nights once cross-examination starts. Cross-examination is particularly difficult, draining, and overwhelming. Try to come up with evening activities or watch a movie so your loved one does not spend the night going over everything they said while testifying. 

This might seem obvious but needs to be said, no drinking alcohol on court breaks or lunches. I also discourage drinking at night after court (as someone who can attest to how miserable going to court hungover is). 

I would recommend reading the sections "All of your questions" and "Courtroom Etiquette" to learn more about courtroom etiquette and other common questions.