Victim services may be available from the local
Victim Advocacy or Victim Services Office at the courthouse, from a local Women's Resource Center or Women's Crisis Center, or from other victim-oriented non-profit services. If you have not yet been informed of the availability of these services, call your local
Law Enforcement office, the County Courthouse, or check for a local phone listing for a Women's Resource or Crisis Center.
Victim Advocacy services usually include:
- Informing victims of the rights available to them their state of residence.
- Explaining how the court process works.
- Finding information for the victim about status of the court case.
- Communicating victim's needs and wishes to justice system departments.
- Advocating for victims' needs.
- Assisting victims in finding resources,community services, and assistance.
- Supporting victims throughout the criminal justice process.
- Making sure that victims are treated fairly and respectfully.
- Providing crisis and emotional support and guidance.
- Informing victims about Crime Victim Compensation and helping with application process.
- Helping victims recover property or receive restitution.
- Helping victims with employer problems, such as when work is missed during a trial.
- Providing a secure place for victims to wait during court proceedings.
- Assisting victims with application for an Order of Protection if the victim of domestic violence , sexual assault (including child sexual abuse and incest), or stalking.
Local services may also be available through a Women's Resource Center or County Crisis Center. These agencies may also offer:
- Crisis response.
- Emergency shelter.
- Information and referral.
- Assistance with protective orders.
- Medical and legal advocacy.
- Safe place to talk and explore options.
- Survivor support groups .