Credits: Thank You
Compensation To
Homicide Survivors
Victim/Witness Advocates
Guide Contents
When a suspect has been charged with the murder of your loved one, you will be assigned a Victim/Witness Advocate by the Director of the Victim/Witness Assistance Program in the District Attorney's Office. The advocate is a liaison between you and your family and the prosecuting attorney, and reports to the Director of the Program. The advocate's role is to offer guidance and support, respond to any question you may have regarding the court proceedings, accompany you to court sessions, and keep you informed of the progress of the case.
If at any time you do not understand the information given to you, do not hesitate to ask for a clearer explanation. Initial contact by the advocate is usually made by telephone shortly after the murder, with a written follow-up within a few days. If you do not hear from the District Attorney's Office in a timely fashion, please call the Director of the Victim/Witness Program and an advocate will be assigned to you immediately.
Your advocate will also be available to assist you in the preparation of a Victim Impact Statement for sentencing purposes, advise you of support services available to you as a survivor, and help you in filing a claim for compensation. If necessary, he may mediate with your employer on you behalf if you need to take time off from work to be in court and experience opposition, or with your landlord or other creditors if you are having financial difficulties which are a direct result of the crime.
The District Attorney's Office recognizes the importance and necessity of mutual respect and trust which must exist between homicide survivors and their advocate. If for any reason you feel unable to interact comfortably and effectively with your advocate, you are encouraged to notify the Director of the Victim/Witness Assistance Program, who will help to resolve any problems which may be causing a conflict.The Director can, under certain circumstances, make arrangements for a new advocate to be assigned to your case. It is essential that you always feel comfortable with, and have confidence in, your advocate's ability to educate and inform you of all proceedings.