The impact of a violent crime on the victim can be far reaching. Individuals often feel helpless, frightened and overwhelmed by emotions. Their sense of safety in the world is profoundly shaken. With support from family and friends a victim’s initial concerns can lessen within a short period of time. However this is not true for everyone and for some the emotional and physical response to the crime can last for an extended period of time. There are many factors which impact how we each respond to a violent crime.

Advocates in the Office of Victim Witness Advocacy in the Prosecutor’s Office can assist victims of violent crime and their families by providing support and information during the police investigation, prosecution and post-conviction phases of the criminal justice process.

Resources:

• National Center for Victims of Crime
•  National Organization for Victim Assistance

New Jersey Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights – N.J.S.A. 52:4B-36