NCJ Number
112888
Date Published
1988
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Social workers are increasingly playing important roles in the criminal justice system, particularly in regard to the victims of family violence.
Abstract
Because police and prosecutors often are reluctant to pursue domestic violence cases, the social worker plays an important role as advocate for change in the criminal justice systems' treatment of victims and in ensuring that the system is both accessible and accountable. In addition, social workers serve as information providers and communicators in behalf of victims. They can educate system actors about such issues as sex-role stereotyping, the social and emotional effects of discrimination on victims, the dynamics of victimization, and other relevant sociological and psychological facts. They also can provide information on research, policies, and activities that enhance the victim's position within the criminal justice system. As advocates, social workers interpret the system to the client, act as consultants to empower victims and help them reach their goals, and promote the interests of victims as a group. Workers also can provide expert testimony to promote greater understanding of the behavior of victims and offenders. While the criminal justice system continues to be a complex web of procedures and policies based on a patriarchal legal system and reflective of discrimination, social workers can improve its response to the needs of victims through individual and system advocacy. 5 footnotes.