Victim Witness Services

Education and Information: Advocates explain the court process, legal terminology, and what to expect during court proceedings. This helps victims and witnesses feel more prepared and less anxious about their role in the legal process.

Accompaniment to Court: Advocates often accompany victims and witnesses to court hearings and trials. This provides emotional support and ensures that they have someone familiar with the process by their side.

Liaison with Prosecutors: Advocates act as a bridge between victims/witnesses and the prosecuting attorneys. They help communicate any concerns or questions the victims/witnesses might have and ensure they are kept informed about the progress of the case.

Assistance with Victim Impact Statements: Advocates help victims prepare and present their victim impact statements, which describe the emotional, physical, and financial effects of the crime. These statements can be presented during sentencing to inform the judge of the crime's impact.

Safety and Comfort Measures: Advocates work to ensure the safety and comfort of victims and witnesses while they are at court. This can include arranging for separate waiting areas away from the defendant and their supporters, and providing support during potentially stressful moments.

Support During Testimony: If a victim or witness needs to testify, advocates provide support and guidance on how to handle cross-examination and other aspects of giving testimony. They help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with testifying in court.

Follow-Up Support: After court proceedings, advocates continue to provide support, helping victims and witnesses understand the outcome of the case and what steps might follow.

Crisis Intervention: Immediate support and assistance following a crime.

Counseling and Emotional Support: Access to counseling services to help victims cope with the emotional impact of the crime.

Information and Referrals: Providing information about the legal process and referring victims to other necessary services, such as medical care or housing assistance.

Court Advocacy: Helping victims understand court procedures, accompanying them to court, and providing updates on the status of their case.

Safety Planning: Assisting victims in developing plans to ensure their safety and the safety of their families.

Restitution Assistance: Helping victims seek financial compensation for losses resulting from the crime.

Victim Impact Statements: Assisting victims in preparing statements to be presented in court, which describe the impact of the crime on their lives.

Victim Assistance

The Atlantic Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office serves as the legal representative for the State of Georgia in prosecuting felony crimes within its jurisdiction. This includes cases handled in both Superior Court and Juvenile Court.

To support those impacted by crime, the District Attorney has established a Victim Services Program, providing assistance to victims, survivors, and witnesses. A dedicated team of advocates acts as the connection between assistant district attorneys and victims, ensuring guidance and support throughout the prosecution process.

Support is available if you’ve experienced or witnessed a crime and need guidance. You can connect with a Victim Advocate by phone during regular business hours. Additionally, you may contact Victim Assistance anytime by submitting the form below—all victim advocates in the selected County will receive your message.

Victims’ Rights

Georgia law O.C.G.A. 17-17-1 protects victims of crimes and guarantees victims certain rights under the Georgia Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights. Those rights include:

• The right to reasonable, accurate, and timely notice of any scheduled court proceedings or any changes to such proceedings;
• The right to reasonable, accurate, and timely notice of the arrest, release, or escape of the accused;
• The right not to be excluded from any scheduled court proceedings, except as provided in this chapter or as otherwise required by law;
• The right to be heard at any scheduled court proceedings involving the release, plea, or sentencing of the accused;
• The right to file a written objection in any parole proceedings involving the accused;
• The right to confer with the prosecuting attorney in any criminal prosecution related to the victim;
• The right to restitution as provided by law;
• The right to proceedings free from unreasonable delay;
• The right to be treated fairly and with dignity by all criminal justice agencies involved in the case;
• The right, under certain conditions, to be notified of the accused being on an electronic release and monitoring program;
• The right to be notified of an arrest warrant being issued for the accused;
• The right to be notified of the accused being prohibited from contacting the victim;
• Victims also have the right to waive these rights.

Informational Guide for Crime Victims Witnesses

Atlantic Judicial Circuit’s Informational Guide for Crime Victims/Witnesses…

Crime Victim Bill of Rights…

Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program…

Know Your Rights as a Victim…

Additional Resources…