Filling the Gap: The Need for Support Services in Court Systems (From Court Support and Advisory Services, P 23-32, 1987, Jane Mugford, ed. -- See NCJ-107566)

• NCJ Number: 107567
• Author(s): C Benjamin
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 10 pages
• Sale Source: Australian Institute of Criminology
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: Australia

Annotation

This paper describes the organization and work of the Victorian Court Information and Welfare Network (Australia), an independent, volunteer agency that provides crisis intervention services for defendants, victims, witnesses, and their families in the context of case processing.

Abstract

Victims, witnesses, defendants, and their families often have serious unmet needs that emerge in the course of case processing. Victoria's Court Network was established in 1980 as a crisis intervention service that offers emotional support, information, and referral services to all persons involved in criminal processing. Volunteer workers are trained and supervised by social service professionals. The director meets regularly with the director of court operations to ensure the coordination of services with court operations. Specific services offered include transportation to court hearings, orientation to court facilities, and advisory and support services during the trial. When persons need long-term services, they are referred to appropriate community agencies. Overall, the services are designed to relieve any negative impacts occasioned by case processing. 7 references.