Victim Witness Specialists assigned to cases take a client centered approach and strive to protect their interest and safety. They may accompany victims to court, assist with preparing victim impact statements, or guide them through the criminal justice process.
Services Provided
OAG’s Victim Services is dedicated to assisting and supporting individuals who have been subjected to serious and violent crimes by juvenile and adult offenders. We are committed to assisting victims return to a sense of normalcy by providing crisis/acute counseling, support and assistance throughout the entire judicial process, as well as making appropriate referrals to collaborating agencies and organizations to address your individualized needs and personal challenges.
Crime Victim Compensation Program
The Crime Victim Compensation Program provides financial assistance to victims of violent crimes that qualify and may include medical expenses, counseling, or funeral expenses. The Office of the Attorney General does not process claims for financial assistance. Program funds are offered by the Crime Victim’s Compensation Fund through the Superior Court for the District of Columbia.
Under District of Columbia law, victims have rights to participate in the legal process. The law protects the victims and gives them their right to be heard.
Some victims of violent crime may require travel assistance to Court. When out of town victims are required to testify, their travel and lodging expenses will be covered. The VWAU assists victims with this process.
Helpful Links
- Application for Crime Victims Compensation
- Did You Know?
- FAQ Frequently Asked Questions
- Trial Guidelines for Victims/Witnesses
- Restitution Rights
- Victim Impact Statement
- Victim's Rights
Please visit and read some important information on the Office of Victim Services, Crime Victims Compensation Program, and WENDT Center websites.
District of Columbia Resources
- Agency to report child sexual abuse
- Grief Counseling
- Crime Victim Compensation Program
- Agency to report child abuse and neglect
- Information for Internet safety and cyber-bullying
- Resource for National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
- Resource for locating housing in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area
- Resource for health, employment, training and community-based services
National Resources
Crime Victim Information
- US Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime
- National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA)
- National Center for Victims of Crime
- National Criminal Justice Reference Service
- National Child Prevention Council
Domestic Violence
- Violence Against Women & Family Protection Office
- National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
- National Domestic Violence Hotline
- Anti-stalking
Substance Abuse Assistance
Sexual Abuse/Assault Assistance
- National Sexual Violence Resource Center
- Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network
- Sexual Assault Response Advocates - Nationwide Hotline
- WEAVE Domestic Violence