-Advocacy is helping victims identify their problems and working together to resolve them proactively:

 

The Victim Witness Unit is comprised of Victim Advocates that are system based and work directly with victims of all violent crime. The Victim Witness Office is located in the District Attorney’s Office and also staffs satellite offices in different locations including local law enforcement agencies. Advocates are staffed in these locations to be accessible and to receive referrals in order to make contact with victims. The goal of the advocates is to provide comprehensive and coordinated services to all victims of violent crime with fairness, dignity and respect. The advocates strive to empower victims in the recovery from the effects of crime through crisis intervention and related support services.

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We know that victims of crime often feel lost and frustrated during the course of the criminal justice system. Victim Advocates serve as the liaison between the victims and law enforcement officials and ensure that each victim is treated with equality and respect

It is essential to the Victim Witness Unit that victims and family/friends/relatives are included in the criminal justice process and notified of their rights.

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In order to achieve this goal, advocates are trained to actively listen to the victim in order to identify resources that address those needs. This may include but is not limited to:

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• Filing for temporary restraining orders

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• Completing applications for victim compensation

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• Providing case dispositions

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• Providing court support

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• Arranging meetings with the DDA and Victims

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If you or someone you know is in need of services through the Victim Witness Office, call: 209.468.2500