A. The judge or presiding officer in a criminal or noncriminal proceeding may order a hearing to determine whether to allow a child witness to testify by an alternative method. The judge or presiding officer, for good cause shown, shall order the hearing upon motion of a party, a child witness, or an individual determined by the judge or presiding officer to have sufficient standing to act on behalf of the child.
B. A hearing to determine whether to allow a child witness to testify by an alternative method shall be conducted on the record after reasonable notice to all parties, any nonparty movant, and any other person the presiding officer specifies. The presence of the child is not required at the hearing unless ordered by the judge or presiding officer. In conducting the hearing, the judge or presiding officer shall not be bound by rules of evidence except the rules of privilege.
Added by Laws 2003, c. 405, § 4, eff. Nov. 1, 2003.