A Guide for Victims of Crime

Being a victim of a crime can be a very difficult experience. Each person copes with the aftermath of victimization in a unique way. Whether you or a family member has been victimized, you may feel anger, guilt, shame, insecurity, fear, powerlessness, and depression. You do not have to go through all of these emotions alone. Many people can help you understand this experience and can support you through the recovery.

This information has been written specifically for crime victims. The more you know about the criminal justice system, the more comfortable you will feel as various events occur. We know this information will not solve all your problems or answer all your questions, but we hope it will serve as a useful guide to explain how and where to find help.

• Pre-trial Process

• Initial Appearance

• Bail

• Grand Jury

• Pretrial Motions

• Guilty or No Contest Plea

• Timing

• Police

• Medical Examiner

• Prosecutor

• Judge

• Jury

• Your Role as a Witness

• Probation Officer

• Sentencing/Restitution

• Appeal and Post Conviction Process

• Parole

• Legal Rights of Victims and Survivors

• Media