For many people being a victim or witness to a crime is their first experience with the criminal or juvenile justice system. The Victim’s Advocacy program was established to assist victims in understanding their rights and making them aware of services available to them.
The main role of the victim’s advocate is to intervene on behalf of the victim to assist the individual. There are many ways that this program can be facilitated through and can include pamphlets, phone calls, letters, and in person meetings. The role of the advocate is to provide information about the case, to give information and referrals and to assist in victim compensation.
Services provided to the victim include:
- Information regarding the judicial process and the rights of the victim through the process
- Information on the status of the case
- Providing information and referral to community resources
- Support and accompaniment through the criminal proceedings
- Assisting in filling out injunction for Protection
- Assistance in filing for crime victim compensation