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Victim/Witness
Unit: We know that your involvement in the Criminal Justice System
is essential to the Prosecutor's Office. Without your support, the Criminal
Justice System cannot operate successfully. Therefore, it is our function
to take steps to minimize the inconvenience and uncertainty associated
with participation in the prosecution of your case.
SERVICES
PROVIDED
- Information about
the Court System
- Information about
your case and its progress
- A private and
secure waiting area in the Courthouse
- Information about
transportation, parking, and child care services
- Assistance in filing
of claims with the Victim of Crime Compensation Board
- Property return
assistance and information
- Employer intervention
- Information about
self-help groups and social service agencies
Crime
Victim's Bill of Rights
- To be treated
with dignity and compassion by the criminal justice system;
- to be informed
about criminal justice process;
- to be free from
intimidation;
- to have the inconvenience
associated with participation in the criminal justice process minimized
to the fullest extent possible;
- to make at least
one telephone call provided the call is reasonable in both length and
location called;
- to get medical
assistance, if in the judgment of the law enforcement agency medical
assistance appears necessary;
- to be notified
if presence in court is not needed;
- to be informed
about available remedies, financial assistance and social services;
- to be compensated
for your loss whenever possible;
- to be provided
a secure, but not necessarily separate, waiting area during court proceedings;
- to be advised
of case progress and final disposition; to the prompt return of property
when no longer needed as evidence;
- to submit a written
statement about the impact of the crime to a representative of the County
Prosecutor's Office which shall be considered prior to the prosecutor's
final decision concerning whether formal criminal charges will be filed;
- to make, prior
to sentencing, an in-person statement directly to the sentencing court
concerning the impact of the crime.
Witness
Guidelines
- You will be sworn
to tell the truth at all times. Do so by answering accurately about
what you know.
- Do not try to memorize
your testimony. Just think about what happened and answer the questions.
- Listen carefully
to the questions. If you do not understand the question, ask that it
be explained or repeated.
- Do not guess.
If you do not know the answer, say so. Think carefully before answering
questions about the amount of time that passed. Try to relate your answers
about distances to objects in the courtroom, if you can.
- Always speak up,
and answer as clearly as you can.
- Do not volunteer
information. Only answer the questions that are asked.
- If there is an
objection, or if the Judge interrupts, stop your answer immediately.
- Always be courteous,
even if the lawyer asking questions of you is not. Your politeness will
make a good impression on the jury and the Judge.
- Neatness in your
appearance and proper attire are also very important.
- Never lose your
temper. Stay calm at all times while you are being questioned.
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