| Violent Crimes Victims' Assistance
Statewide Victim Assistance Program
The Statewide Victim Assistance Program was implemented in January of 1998 to provide services to those victims and witnesses who interact with the Office of Attorney General.
Cases handled by this office include, but are not limited to: sexually violent persons cases, Internet cases, child sexual assault and abuse cases, gang-related cases, and any other criminal case in which the Office of the Attorney General has been requested to prosecute. The services of the Statewide Victim Assistance Program are also available to any Illinois State’s Attorney’s office that has requested assistance with their criminal cases from the Illinois Attorney General’s office.
There are many services provided by this program to both the victims/witnesses and the attorneys who handle the prosecution of a criminal case. The program notifies all victims/witnesses of court dates and explains what is going to take place during the various stages of the court process. It also provides emotional support and problem solving for the victims during each court date.
The program provides referral information for counseling and other relevant social services. Other features include: assisting with the preparation and presentation of victim impact statements, providing crime victim compensation information and application assistance, and advising victims/witnesses of their rights according to the Illinois Victim’s Bill of Rights.
Due to the Statewide Victim Assistance Program, we have been able to inform and educate victims about the criminal justice system and restore confidence by providing a system of support. By helping the victim take an active role in the prosecution, the program has reduced the occurrence of re-victimization. Victims are given a voice and are provided with invaluable resources that help them renew, restore, and rebuild their lives.
Go to Violent Crime Victims Assistance Listings
Go to Crime Victims Services Main Page
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