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The Victim Witness Division is staffed with counselors who work as part of a team with attorneys,
investigators and secretaries from the Trial, Grand Jury, and the Family Justice Divisions. When
needed, staff also works with the Appellate and Special Prosecution Divisions.
It is a major goal of the Division to help victims of crime and protect their rights. Our mission
is to reduce victim and witness apprehension about participation in the prosecution of a case and
to increase their willingness and ability to testify effectively and without fear. To fulfill this
goal, a variety of services are provided, including: short term counseling and crisis intervention,
referral services for sources of assistance, information on the court and criminal justice system,
court preparation and accompaniment, assistance with Victims Compensation Claims and Victim Impact
Statements. In addition, staff members supervise bachelors and masters level social work college
interns.
The Division provides witness coordination services. These services are extended to subpoenaed
witnesses and include court information, travel and lodging arrangements, assistance with reimbursement
forms, interpreter services and special services required by persons with disabilities. Counseling
referral services are also available for witnesses.
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