| The
Wise County and City of Norton Victim/Witness Office is
associated with the Wise County Commonwealth's Attorney's
office, working closely with prosecutors in the preparation
of cases and prosecution of crimes. The
purpose of the Wise County and City of Norton Victim/Witness
program is to assist both crime victims and witnesses
through the criminal justice system.
Your
role as a victim or witness in the criminal justice
system is vital to bringing a case before the court.
It is only through your cooperation that criminals can
be brought to justice.
This
web site briefly describes your rights under the Crime
Victim and Witness Rights Act and the services offered
by the Wise County and City of Norton Victim/Witness
Program. It also outlines your role in the criminal
justice process and describes how a case progresses
through the courts. The Victim/Witness Program offers
assistance to you as a victim or witness, and to a victim,
his or her family and others in dealing with the results
of victimization.
Services
Provided by the Victim/Witness Program
-
Notification of victims and witnesses of information
about your case, including updates and significant developments
in the police investigation, court date(s), and the
outcome of the trial.
-
Explanation of steps in the criminal justice process,
of court procedures, and of your role as a witness.
If possible a tour of the courtroom can be arranged
before you testify.
-
Accompanying you to and from court, if needed.
-
Assisting you in obtaining reimbursement for travel
expenses related to your court appearance(s).
-
Interceding with your employer to explain your need
for time off to testify.
-
Victim crisis counseling and referral to social service
agencies and counseling or support agencies.
-
Assistance to victims in preparing a Victim Impact Statement
which describes the effect the crime has had on your
life or that of your family.
-
Assistance in filing for compensation under the Virginia
Criminal Injuries compensation Fund.
-
Assistance in obtaining court ordered restitution from
the defendant.
-
Crime prevention information and assistance.
-
Information about protection from threats by the offender
or anyone else who would obstruct your cooperation with
law enforcement or interfere with prosecution efforts.
-
Assistance with the recovery of personal property held
as evidence.
-
Assistance with confidentiality issues. |
