Evidence from several studies suggests that children rarely testify in trials, although they may be required to testify at preliminary hearings, grand juries, or other proceedings. Studies also indicate that many but not all children find the court process distressing. Effects do not appear to be of long duration, however, and children's functioning tends to improve over time regardless of their court experience. Nonetheless, innovative practices may be needed in some cases to prepare children to testify, to protect children from face-to-face contact with offenders, and to provide emotional support to child witnesses. Interventions may also need to be directed toward the child and the family that focus on education, stress management, parental attitudes, maternal support, and child characteristics. Research findings are detailed in terms of their application to practice with children as witnesses in the criminal justice system. 30 references