NCJ Number
217887
Date Published
2007
Length
6 pages
Annotation
In discussing the role of social workers in victim/witness assistance programs, this chapter addresses the need for such programs; a comparison of victim service programs and victim/witness assistance programs; legislation, funding, and stability; and staffing patterns.
Abstract
During the past 15 years, a growing number of counties and cities have developed victim-service and witness-assistance programs, victim compensation programs, and specialized domestic violence programs in order to reduce the impact that violent crime has upon victims/witnesses. Victim/witness assistance programs are usually located either within the local county prosecutor's suite of offices, the county courthouse, or across the street from the court building. These programs are intended to encourage witness cooperation in the filing of criminal charges and testifying in court. The primary objectives of these programs are to assist witnesses in dealing with the anxiety and trauma associated with testifying in court. This is typically done by emphasizing to the victim/witness the importance of her/his cooperation, informing them of their rights, providing information on the court process, and giving advice on how to recall events and testify. Such programs are particularly important for victims/witnesses in cases of violence. Over 90 percent of the staff of victim/witness assistance programs has a bachelor's degree; only 28 percent have a graduate degree. The graduate degree is usually a masters in social work or masters in sociology, counseling, or criminal justice. Most graduate schools of social work provide opportunities for students to do field work in a prosecutor-based victim assistance program, a sexual assault intervention center, a battered women's shelter, or a crisis intervention unit. 12 references