Introduction to Your Journey as a Victim
Often, you’ll find that handling the complexities of the legal system as a victim can be overwhelming. To assist you, we’ve created this section of the website to explore common FAQs and provide guidance.
Understanding the Process: The Knock, Police and Investigations
THE KNOCK, discussed in the previous section, marks the beginning of this journey. Naturally, you will seek to understand the process of police investigations that could potentially lead your loved one’s case to trial. Feeling afraid and anxious about attending court, especially if it’s your first time, is perfectly normal. Preparing yourself, understanding court etiquette, and knowing the rules set by the courts will assist you when the time comes.
Navigating the New Lifestyle: Trial and Court
This section aims to help anyone struggling with the new, unfamiliar lifestyle they now face. You are not alone; there is help and support available on various social media platforms. This section has a list of answers to questions with navigating the process of court and what outcomes you may expect with trials and court. This list will continually evolve over time.
Prison and Parole
You will likely feel worried, anxious, and scared about visiting a person in prison, as many do. You will wonder about what happens to your loved one once they are “over the wall” and have curiosities about prison life and routines. This section aims to address many questions you may have about prison, addressing stereotypes, the aftermaths with court sentencing such as hospital visits and more. Like many, you may also be concerned about supporting yourself and your family financially while finding extra money for prison visits, staying in contact, and supporting your loved one.
Preparing for Release: Victim’s Perspective
As your loved one nears release, you might feel anxious about the agencies that could become involved in your life. If the offense was serious, it might warrant involvement from Social Services, probation, and MAPPA. This section explores and defines their roles in this part of your journey.