Special measures in civil cases mirror those in criminal cases. CPR Rule 32.3 allows a witness to give evidence via livelink but there is not the vast array of means of special measures. Instead, a witness may avoid giving evidence altogether by the admission of their statement as hearsay under a judge's wide discretion over evidence.

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While CPR Rule 32.3 does allow a witness to give evidence via live link in civil cases, the range of special measures available in civil proceedings does not mirror the extensive array found in criminal cases. In criminal proceedings, special measures for vulnerable or intimidated witnesses are more comprehensive under the Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act 1999, including screens, live links, and measures to support communication for those with disabilities. Civil proceedings offer fewer such tailored options, focusing instead on flexibility in evidence admission and the potential for hearsay evidence to be considered under a judge's discretion.

Special Measures in Civil Cases Mirror Those in Criminal Cases