Victim-Witness Assistance
The goal of the victim witness assistance program in the United States Attorney's Office is to ensure that victims of federal crime are treated with fairness and respect, and receive the services to which they are entitled. A variety of notification and assistance services are available.
Notification Services
When a case reaches the prosecution stage in the criminal justice system, notification will be provided to the victims, and to witnesses, by request. Notification includes the filing of charges against the suspected offender, the custody status of the offender, the scheduling of court hearings, the terms of any negotiated plea or verdict after the trial, the opportunity to provide a victim impact statement, the date of sentencing, the sentencing judgment, and post sentencing notifications. The most common method of notification is by letter.
Other Assistance
For those needing additional assistance as a result of the crime, referrals can be made to agencies with provide direct services and there is assistance with the court process, court waiting areas, translator services, and employer contact. Additional services are available for child victims and witnesses and for victims of domestic violence.
For more information contact:
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Leslie Hollingsworth |
Cherith Beck |