Victim Services

OAG provides victim services through our Victim Witness Specialists. Victim Witness Specialists offer support and services to victims and witnesses of violent crimes committed by juveniles and to those injured in traffic offenses. The Specialists’ primary function is to connect victims with the services and resources they need to regain a sense of normalcy in their lives. Our Victim Witness Specialists offer the following assistance in:

  • Crisis intervention;
  • Accessing services to facilitate healing and recovery;
  • Exploring options to increase personal safety;
  • Educating on the juvenile and criminal court procedures and processes and victims’ rights and roles in a court case;
  • Applying for compensation from the Crime Victims Compensation Program;
  • Facilitating (virtual or in-person) attendance at court proceedings, including connecting with interpreters and travel assistance;
  • Accompanying victims to attend court proceedings; and
  • Drafting and presenting victim impact statements in cases that proceed to sentencing or disposition.

Crime Victims Compensation Fund

The Superior Court of the District of Columbia operates the Crime Victims Compensation Program to provide financial assistance to victims of violent crimes that qualify. Compensation may assist with expenses related to the crime such as medical bills, counseling, home security, and funeral costs. Compensation does not cover expenses associated with property damage. More information is available on provided by the court—Crime Victims Compensation Program.

Victim's Rights

Do you want to learn more about the rights of victims? The rights and services available depend on whether the case involved a youth or an adult. In cases involving a youth who is being prosecuted in Family Court, you can find information on victims’ rights by clicking here. The rights of victims in cases involving adult criminal prosecutions can be found in law in the DC Code.

Helpful Resources

Child Victims

Domestic Violence

Sexual Assault

Medical and Counseling Resources

National Resources