Do you have to provide a statement to the Police before going to court as witness and do you need to give personal information about yourself in court?

Answer 1

If you are a witness for the defense, then no, you don't have to talk to the Police. If you are a witness for the prosecution, then the DA would probably have already talked to you regarding your testimony before it was decided that you would be a witness.

As far as personal information, yes, you would give your name, address, etc. And, you can be asked anything while testifying...doesn't necessarily mean the judge will allow it to be answered, especially if there is a reasonable objection from the opposing side.

Talk to the DA or the attorney (depending which you are testifying for) and ask what you can be expected to be asked. They will inform you legally.

Another view: I am in general agreement with the above answer - EXCEPT - I have never been involved in a court session in which a civilian witness was questioned in open court about their personal data (i.e.: address, phone number, etc), other than identifying themselves by name. However - in the case of "expert" witnesses, this does not hold true.