CRIME VICTIMS ASSISTANCE
MISSION STATEMENT
To provide all victims of violent crimes with a better understanding of the criminal court process and to empower victims to fully participate in that process by providing a continuum of information and referral. A victim's rights, dignity, and protection are of primary concern as they face overwhelming legal and psychological complexities.
STEPS OF THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
  1. Crime Reported
  2. Arrest Made
  3. Bond Set
  4. Review by District Attorney
  5. or Grand Jury
Grand Jury:
A group of 12 citizens, sitting for a six month term, responsible for deciding probable cause in criminal cases. An assistant district attorney presents the outline of the case, provides testimony from victim/witnesses, and leaves the Grand Jury with the complete case file. The Grand Jury votes in secret to return a TRUE BILL (indictment) or a NO TRUE BILL (the case is dismissed due to lack of sufficient evidence). The Grand Jury can reconsider a no billed case it sufficient new evidence appears.

  1. Bill of information or indictment issued
  2. Arraignment
  3. Motions and Hearings
  4. Pre-Trial Conference
  5. Trial (Jury or Judge)
Jury Trial:
In a criminal trial, the jury must believe BEYOND A REASONABLE DOUBT that the defendant committed the crime with which he is charged. This means that a juror must have no reasonable doubts about the defendant's guilt. If a juror has a reasonable doubt, that juror must vote "NOT GUILTY".

  1. Presentence Investigation
  2. Sentencing
  3. Appeals

It is your RIGHT to be present at all court proceedings
of the defendant's case. Your presence is not mandatory,
however, unless you have been subpoenaed to appear.
If you choose not to be present, you can request that
you be informed of the outcomes of all proceedings.
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CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS
  • The right to reasonable notice, to be present, and to be heard (Victim Impact Statement) during all critical stages of preconviction and postconviction proceedings.
  • The right to refuse to be interviewed by the accused or a representative of the accused.
  • The right to be informed upon the release from custody or the escape of the accused.
  • The right to review and comment upon the presentence report prior to imposition of sentence.
  • The right to confer with the prosecution prior to final disposition of the case.
  • The right to seek restitution from the accused or from the Crime Victim's Reparation Fund (if eligible).
  • The right to a reasonably prompt conclusion of the case.

The purpose of these rights is to give the victims of crime
a greater opportunity for involvement in their case
as well as an enhanced feeling of security as they
journey through the criminal justice system.
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VICTIMS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM SERVICES PROVIDED
  • Timely notification of all criminal and court proceedings.
  • Informing victims of all legal rights afforded to them.
  • Providing an opportunity to submit a "Victim Impact Statement".
  • Moral and emotional support and familiarity with the court system through interviews, assistance with paperwork, and addressing victim concerns.
  • Preparation for court appearances if necessary.
  • Referral to the Crime Victims Reparation Program and local community services.
  • Notification of parole hearings, release, escape, or execution of the defendant.

Victims assistance services are provided
by the District Attorney's office upon request at no cost.
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IT 1S MOST IMPORTANT THAT YOU PROVIDE
THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
WITH A VALID ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER!
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