Victim/Witness Assistance Program

Help Is Available…

A crime can have severe after-affects on the victim.  Weeks, months, and sometimes years after the violation, the victim may still be experiencing emotional, financial, and legal problems.  These problems may lead to feelings of helplessness, guilt, frustration and anger.

The goal of the CSP Victim/Witness Assistance Program is to provide needed services for the victims and witnesses and to encourage their cooperation in the investigation of the case and prosecution of the offender.  The staff and trained volunteers provide direct assistance, support counseling, information and referral services to over 50,000 victims and witnesses each year.  Translation services for non-English speaking clients are available.

Workshops on crime prevention and victim services are presented on request throughout Orange County by Victim Advocates.

The Victim/Witness Assistance Program was established in 1978 and is funded by the State from penalty assessments collected from convicted offenders.  Additional financial support is received from community donations.  Dedicated volunteers work over 30,000 hours a year to help extend the services offered.

Your Rights as a Crime Victim…

…to be treated with dignity and compassion.

…to be protected from intimidation and harm.

…to be informed of social services and resources available in the community.

…to be informed concerning the criminal justice system, and the status of the case.

…to be assisted if subpoenaed as a witness.

…to have help in dealing with the system and to be accompanied to court for support.

…to have opinions considered at the case disposition through a Victim Impact Statement.

…to preservation of property and employment.

…to be compensated for injuries, wage loss, and funeral expenses.

…to be assisted while working with other Victim Services agencies.