PROGRAM GOAL

The primary goal of the Victim/Witness Assistance program is to reduce the level of secondary injury associated with the aftermath of crime; and, to aid in the prosecution of criminal cases by ensuring that crime victims and witnesses are provided with the entitlements and services mandated by the Massachusetts Victim Bill of Rights (M.GL. c. 258B), and those additional services provided as a policy of the program within the office of the District Attorney.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Advocates are primarily responsible for the provision of information, support and advocacy services to victims, witnesses and their families throughout the criminal justice process.

Duties of a Victim/Witness Advocate

n      1) Notification Services: Provide notice to victims and witnesses of court events and proceedings, (e.g.: arrest, arraignment, postponements, hearings, trial, case disposition, and appeal), either verbally or in writing.

n      2) Victim’s Right to Allocution: Provide information and assistance to victims regarding the right to make an oral or written Victim Impact Statement to the court prior to case disposition.  Such statement may address the financial, physical, and psychological impact of the crime, as well as a recommendation regarding sentencing.

n      3) Additional Victim Witness Services include:

n      Victim of Violent Crime Compensation- One of our advocates can assist you with your Victim of Violent Crime Application for any questions you may have. Please free to contact us with any compensation or benefits concerns. Victim Compensation Form

n      Crisis Intervention and Support- We can help you review your options and locate a mental health service group that can meet your needs.

n      Court Notification- We will notify you of court dates in your case.

n      Education about the Criminal Justice System/Your Rights Under the Victim- The Court system can be an intimidating and frustrating experience for any survivor.  Our advocacy staff will make sure that your rights under the Victim Bill of Rights (MGL, ch 258B) are respected and you understand the court process.

n      Trial Preparation/In Court Advocacy and Support- We will help prepare you for the trial process and your testimony. We are also on hand to offer in-court support throughout the trial process.

n      Victim Impact Statement Preparation- Under the Victim Bill of Rights you have the right to be heard at sentencing in an oral or written statement about the effects of  your assault. Our staff will work with you to prepare a statement that you feel is appropriate and meaningful.

n      Post Sentencing Issues- We will assist you with applying for CORI certification, making contact with the Parole Board and keep you updated on the status of any appellate review on your behalf.
 

RESOURCES

Bristol County

Ø      New Bedford Women’s Center (508) 996-3343 Hotline: 99WOMEN (999-6636) Ø      New Hope (Taunton/Attleboro) 1-800-323-HOPE(4673) Ø      SSTAR  (Fall River)         1-800-937-3610 Ø      Victims of Crime Act (VOCA)  (617) 727-5200

Services are available for child, teen, and adult victims & witnesses of crimes, include: Child Abuse, Domestic Violence, Homicide, Sexual Assault,
Physical Assault, Hate Crimes, Elder Abuse, Drunk Driving
 

Victim Witness Assistance Program Resource Numbers n      Bristol County District Attorney’s Office: (508) 997-0711 n      Attleboro District Attorney’s Office: (508)222-3309 n      Attleboro Juvenile District Attorney’s Office: (508)222-3309 n      Fall River District Attorney’s Office: (508) 679-1911 n      Fall River Juvenile District Attorney’s Office: (508) 676-0090 x236 n      New Bedford District Attorney’s Office: (508) 997-6333 n      New Bedford Juvenile District Attorney’s Office: (508) 997-1053 n      Taunton District Attorney’s Office: (508) 823-8801 n      Taunton Juvenile District Attorney’s Office: (508) 824-2350 n      Domestic Child and Elder Abuse Unit: (508) 997-0711 n      Tip Line: 1-866-SOLVE-07